Enhancing gravitational-wave detection: a machine learning pipeline combination approach with robust uncertainty quantification

Abstract

Gravitational-wave data from advanced-era interferometric detectors consists of background Gaussian noise, frequent transient artifacts, and rare astrophysical signals. Multiple search algorithms exist to detect the signals from compact binary coalescences, but their varying performance complicates interpretation. We present a machine-learning-driven approach that combines results from individual pipelines and utilizes conformal prediction to provide robust, calibrated uncertainty quantification. Using simulations, we demonstrate improved detection efficiency and apply our model to GWTC-3, enhancing confidence in multipipeline detections, such as the subthreshold binary neutron star candidate GW200311_103121.</p