Upper limits on gravitational-wave signals based on loudest events

TL;DR

This paper discusses a mathematical framework for setting upper limits on gravitational-wave signals based on the loudest events, aiding in constraining astrophysical populations.

Contribution

It introduces a formal method for deriving upper limits on gravitational-wave signals using loudest event statistics, enhancing previous approaches.

Findings

Provides a mathematical construction for upper limits

Improves constraints on astrophysical populations

Framework applicable to gravitational-wave burst searches

Abstract

Searches for gravitational-wave bursts have often focused on the loudest event(s) in searching for detections and in determining upper limits on astrophysical populations. Typical upper limits have been reported on event rates and event amplitudes which can then be translated into constraints on astrophysical populations. We describe the mathematical construction of such upper limits.