When is the peak energy of gravitational radiation

[wolram]

When 2 black holes coalesce when is the peak energy created, when the BHs are close together or when they are fully merged.

 

[jimgraber]

Just at the last instant before they merge. The energy increases during the inspiral, and decreases during the ringdown.
The very brief in-between phase, sometimes called the "plunge" or the "merger" is when the peak occurs.

Jim Graber

 

[wolram]

Thanks Jim