LIGO detects no gravitational waves from gamma ray burst

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the non-detection of gravitational waves from a gamma-ray burst (GRB070201) observed on February 1, 2007, and the implications of this finding. Participants explore the nature of gamma-ray bursts, particularly the distinction between short bursts and soft gamma-ray repeaters, and the potential sources of gamma rays that do not produce gravitational waves.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants note that the majority of short gamma-ray bursts are thought to originate from the merger of compact objects like neutron stars or black holes.
  • One participant asks for clarification on what constitutes a "soft gamma-ray repeater," suggesting it may be related to magnetars.
  • Another participant references a previous reading about gamma rays from lightning, questioning its relevance to the February 1 observation.
  • A later reply clarifies that the mention of lightning was intended to illustrate sources of gamma rays that do not produce gravitational radiation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express curiosity and seek clarification on specific terms and concepts, indicating a general interest in the topic. However, there is no consensus on the implications of the non-detection of gravitational waves or the relationship between different sources of gamma rays.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference various sources and concepts, but there are unresolved questions regarding the definitions and characteristics of soft gamma-ray repeaters and their relation to gravitational wave production.

SF
On February 1, 2007, the Konus-Wind, Integral, Messenger, and Swift gamma-ray satellites measured a short but intense outburst of energetic gamma rays originating in the direction of M31, the Andromeda galaxy, located 2.5 million light-years away. The majority of such short (less than two seconds in duration) gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) are thought to emanate from the merger and coalescence of two massive but compact objects, such as neutron stars or black-hole systems. They can also come from astronomical objects known as soft gamma-ray repeaters, which are less common than binary coalescence events and emit less energetic gamma rays.

During the intense blast of gamma rays, known as GRB070201, the 4-km and 2-km gravitational-wave interferometers at the Hanford facility were in science mode and collecting data. They did not, however, measure any gravitational waves in the aftermath of the burst.

That non-detection was itself significant.

http://www.spaceref.com/news/viewpr.html?pid=24501
 
Space news on Phys.org
Hi SF,

Very interesting! Can someone describe what a "soft gamma-ray repeater" is?

Jon
 
Last edited:
I read this some time ago, no chance of GW from lightning i guess.

http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2007/10/071011-lightning-rays.html
 
Last edited by a moderator:
wolram said:
I read this some time ago, no chance of GW from lightning i guess.

http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2007/10/071011-lightning-rays.html

Hm, that's very interesting but it seems like this couldn't explain the Feb 1 observation, since those were taken by satellites?
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Oh no i just meant it as a way gamma rays can come from things that would not produce gravitational radiation.
 
Oh, I see.
 

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