Gravitational waveforms from inspiralling compact binaries to second-post-Newtonian order

TL;DR

This paper provides detailed gravitational waveforms from inspiralling compact binaries at second-post-Newtonian order, aiding future gravitational wave data analysis and tests of general relativity.

Contribution

It introduces precise waveform models at second-post-Newtonian order for non-spinning binaries, enhancing gravitational wave detection and analysis capabilities.

Findings

Waveforms ready for LIGO and VIRGO data analysis

Second-post-Newtonian corrections improve waveform accuracy

Framework for testing relativistic gravity with gravitational waves

Abstract

The two independent ``plus" and ``cross" polarization waveforms associated with the gravitational waves emitted by inspiralling, non-spinning, compact binaries are presented, ready for use in the data analysis of signals received by future laser interferometer gravitational-wave detectors such as LIGO and VIRGO. The computation is based on a recently derived expression of the gravitational field at the second-post-Newtonian approximation of general relativity beyond the dominant (Newtonian) quadrupolar field. The use of these theoretical waveforms to make measurements of astrophysical parameters and to test the nature of relativistic gravity is discussed.