Detectability of Gravitational Waves from SN 1987A

TL;DR

This paper explores the potential detection of gravitational waves from a neutron star formed by supernova 1987A, assuming specific parameters, and discusses how such detection could inform us about neutron star properties.

Contribution

It analyzes the detectability of gravitational waves from SN 1987A's neutron star using claimed parameters, linking gravitational wave detection to neutron star characteristics.

Findings

Detection feasible with LIGO II if parameters are correct

Constraints on wobble angle and crust stress limits

SN 1987A's remnant could be a reliable gravitational wave source

Abstract

We discuss the potential for detection of gravitational waves from a rapidly spinning neutron star produced by supernova 1987A taking the parameters claimed by Middleditch et al. (2000) at face value. Asssuming that the dominant mechanism for spin down is gravitational waves emitted by a freely precessing neutron star, it is possible to constrain the wobble angle, the effective moment of inertai of the precessing crust and the crust cracking stress limit. Our analysis, suggests that, if the interpretation of the Middleditch data is correct, the compact remnant of SN 1987A may well provide a reliable and predictable source of gravitational waves well within the capability of LIGO II.