Characteristic Evolution and Matching

TL;DR

This paper reviews the development of numerical characteristic evolution codes in general relativity, highlighting progress from simple 1D models to complex 3D black hole simulations and discussing the technique of Cauchy-characteristic matching.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive overview of the evolution of characteristic numerical codes and their application to binary black hole simulations and matching techniques.

Findings

Progress from 1D to 3D black hole simulations

Implementation of Cauchy-characteristic matching

Advancements in numerical relativity techniques

Abstract

I review the development of numerical evolution codes for general relativity based upon the characteristic initial value problem. Progress is traced from the early stage of 1D feasibility studies to current 3D black codes that simulate binary black holes. A prime application of characteristic evolution is Cauchy-characteristic matching, which is also reviewed.