Bayesian Calibration of Gravitational-Wave Detectors Using Null Streams Without Waveform Assumptions
General Relativity and Quantum Cosmology
2025-10-09 v1
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.
Cite
@article{arxiv.2510.06327,
title = {Bayesian Calibration of Gravitational-Wave Detectors Using Null Streams Without Waveform Assumptions},
author = {Isaac C. F. Wong and Francesco Cireddu and Milan Wils and Tom Colemont and Harsh Narola and Chris Van Den Broeck and Tjonnie G. F. Li},
journal= {arXiv preprint arXiv:2510.06327},
year = {2025}
}
Comments
10 pages, 5 figures