SEMINAR 2024

Abstract

Current observations through ground-based detectors of gravitational waves (GWs) are having a pronounced effect on the understanding of our universe. The proposed space-based detector, the Laser Interferometer Space Antenna, will provide access to observations of GWs in the rich mHz frequency band, thus higher mass binaries. However, this science potential cannot be realised without access to accurate gravitational waveform models that are faithful to the true gravitational wave buried within the noise of the LISA instrument. A promising source of gravitational radiation for the LISA instrument are those of small mass-ratio binaries, specifically when the companion compact object is a factor, say, 100,000 smaller than the central black hole. In this talk I will give a pedagogical discussion of the importance of accurate waveform modelling of small mass-ratio binaries, discussing the detrimental impact on science if these waveforms are mis-modelled. To conclude, we will discuss whether the spin of the secondary body can be constrained.