Initial Data for Numerical Relativity

TL;DR

This paper reviews methods for setting initial data in numerical relativity, focusing on formalisms used to model black holes and neutron stars for realistic astrophysical simulations.

Contribution

It systematically examines various formalisms for initial data construction in the 3+1 Einstein equations, emphasizing their application to compact binary systems.

Findings

Different formalisms are effective for modeling black holes and neutron stars.

Emphasis on initial data that lead to astrophysically realistic simulations.

Guidelines for choosing initial data in numerical relativity simulations.

Abstract

Initial data are the starting point for any numerical simulation. In the case of numerical relativity, Einstein's equations constrain our choices of these initial data. We will examine several of the formalisms used for specifying Cauchy initial data in the 3+1 decomposition of Einstein's equations. We will then explore how these formalisms have been used in constructing initial data for spacetimes containing black holes and neutron stars. In the topics discussed, emphasis is placed on those issues that are important for obtaining astrophysically realistic initial data for compact binary coalescence.