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arXiv · 2510.06327

Bayesian Calibration of Gravitational-Wave Detectors Using Null Streams Without Waveform Assumptions

Isaac C. F. Wong·Francesco Cireddu·Milan Wils·Tom Colemont·Harsh Narola·Chris Van Den Broeck·Tjonnie G. F. Li
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Abstract

We introduce a Bayesian null-stream method to constrain calibration errors in closed-geometry gravitational-wave (GW) detector networks. Unlike prior methods requiring electromagnetic counterparts or waveform models, this method uses sky-independent null streams to calibrate the detectors with any GW signals, independent of general relativity or waveform assumptions. We show a proof-of-concept study to demonstrate the feasibility of the method. We discuss prospects for next-generation detectors like Einstein Telescope, Cosmic Explorer, and LISA, where enhanced calibration accuracy will advance low-frequency GW science.

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Isaac C. F. Wong, Francesco Cireddu, Milan Wils, Tom Colemont, Harsh Narola, Chris Van Den Broeck, Tjonnie G. F. Li. 2025-10-07. Bayesian Calibration of Gravitational-Wave Detectors Using Null Streams Without Waveform Assumptions. https://arxiv.org/abs/2510.06327

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