Stochastic Background Search Correlating ALLEGRO with LIGO Engineering Data

TL;DR

This paper discusses the use of correlation measurements between LIGO and ALLEGRO detectors to search for a stochastic gravitational wave background, leveraging their different frequency sensitivities and orientations to improve detection confidence.

Contribution

It introduces a novel correlation analysis between LIGO and ALLEGRO data, enhancing the search for high-frequency gravitational wave backgrounds with unique detector configurations.

Findings

Developed a method to correlate LIGO and ALLEGRO data

Set preliminary limits on stochastic background strength near 900 Hz

Demonstrated the benefit of combining different detector types

Abstract

We describe the role of correlation measurements between the LIGO interferometer in Livingston, LA, and the ALLEGRO resonant bar detector in Baton Rouge, LA, in searches for a stochastic background of gravitational waves. Such measurements provide a valuable complement to correlations between interferometers at the two LIGO sites, since they are sensitive in a different, higher, frequency band. Additionally, the variable orientation of the ALLEGRO detector provides a means to distinguish gravitational wave correlations from correlated environmental noise. We describe the analysis underway to set a limit on the strength of a stochastic background at frequencies near 900 Hz using ALLEGRO data and data from LIGO's E7 Engineering Run.