Rapid identification of time-frequency domain gravitational wave signals from binary black holes using deep learning

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates that a U-Net deep learning model can rapidly and effectively identify gravitational wave signals from binary black hole mergers in the time-frequency domain, offering advantages over traditional methods.

Contribution

The study introduces the application of the 2D U-Net algorithm for GW signal identification, providing more intuitive outputs and preliminary parameter inference capabilities.

Findings

Achieved clear identification of GW signals in first and second LIGO observing runs.

Approximately 80% of third run GW events can be identified with the model.

The U-Net outputs offer more intuitive visualizations and preliminary chirp mass information.

Abstract

Recent developments in deep learning techniques have offered an alternative and complementary approach to traditional matched filtering methods for the identification of gravitational wave (GW) signals. The rapid and accurate identification of GW signals is crucial for the progress of GW physics and multi-messenger astronomy, particularly in light of the upcoming fourth and fifth observing runs of LIGO-Virgo-KAGRA. In this work, we use the 2D U-Net algorithm to identify the time-frequency domain GW signals from stellar-mass binary black hole (BBH) mergers. We simulate BBH mergers with component masses from 5 to 80 $M_{\odot}$ and account for the LIGO detector noise. We find that the GW events in the first and second observation runs could all be clearly and rapidly identified. For the third observing run, about $80\%$ GW events could be identified. In particular, GW190814, currently unknown, is a special case that can be identified by the network, while other binary neutron star mergers and neutron star-black hole mergers can not be identified. Compared to the traditional convolutional neural network, the U-Net algorithm can output the time-frequency domain signal images rather than probabilities, providing a more intuitive investigation. Moreover, some of the results through U-Net can provide preliminary inference on the chirp mass information. In conclusion, the U-Net algorithm can rapidly identify the time-frequency domain GW signals from BBH mergers and potentially be helpful for future parameter inferences.