From upper limits to detection : continuous gravitational waves in the advanced detector era

Abstract

This thesis concerns continuous gravitational wave signals from non-axisymmetric neutron stars and ground-based interferometric detectors. These detectors are currently being upgraded and this thesis explores relevant issues and methods to prepare for the advanced detector era. A study into sensitivity dependence on the addition of a southern hemisphere detector for a targeted continuous wave search is first presented. Next, we study the effect of close and/or high velocity neutron stars on the ability of a blind, all-sky search to make a detection. Initial results from a narrowband search for signals from the Crab Pulsar and a blind hardware injected signal are then presented. Finally, we describe the development and initial implementation of a large-scale mock data challenge designed to test current continuous wave algorithms to explore various issues before we enter the advanced detector era.EThOS - Electronic Theses Online ServiceGBUnited Kingdo