High-Frequency Gravitational Waves from Phase Transitions in Nascent Neutron Stars

TL;DR

This paper proposes that phase transitions in nascent neutron stars could emit high-frequency gravitational waves, providing a novel observational window into quark matter and quantum chromodynamics.

Contribution

It introduces the idea that neutron star core phase transitions produce detectable MHz gravitational waves, linking astrophysics with fundamental particle physics.

Findings

Potential gravitational wave signals in the MHz band from neutron star phase transitions

Implications for testing quantum chromodynamics in astrophysical settings

Encourages development of high-frequency gravitational wave detectors

Abstract

Tentative evidence suggests that the cores of massive neutron stars consist of deconfined quark matter. We argue that the formation of such a quark matter core during a galactic supernova could be accompanied by the emission of gravitational waves in the MHz band. These signals constitute a new target for high-frequency gravitational wave detectors, demonstrating that such detectors may offer unique opportunities for testing quantum chromodynamics in an otherwise inaccessible regime.