Three Dimensional Distorted Black Holes: Initial Data and Evolution

TL;DR

This paper introduces a new class of 3D black hole initial data sets with adjustable distortions, enhancing the tools for simulating complex black hole interactions and providing insights into their physics.

Contribution

The authors develop and describe a novel method for creating dynamic, distorted 3D black hole initial data sets with adjustable parameters for numerical relativity.

Findings

New 3D black hole initial data sets with adjustable distortions

Extension of test beds for binary black hole simulations

Progress in evolving these complex initial data sets

Abstract

We present a new class of 3D black hole initial data sets for numerical relativity. These data sets go beyond the axisymmetric, ``gravity wave plus rotating black hole'' single black hole data sets by creating a dynamic, distorted hole with adjustable distortion parameters in 3D. These data sets extend our existing test beds for 3D numerical relativity, representing the late stages of binary black hole collisions resulting from on-axis collision or 3D spiralling coalescence, and should provide insight into the physics of such systems. We describe the construction of these sets, the properties for a number of example cases, and report on progress evolving them.