Astronomy & Astrophysics

UTRGV is a member of the LIGO-Virgo Scientific collaboration. As members of the LVC collaboration we are involved in the analysis of data from the two LIGO, the Virgo and the German-British GEO600 detectors. Data is analyzed for the detection of gravitational wave (GW) signals of astrophysical origin as well as for the characterization of the detector. Research in data analysis for astrophysical searches includes developing innovative search algorithms, both for existing and future detectors such as LISA, enhancing the sensitivity of existing algorithms in real data and increasing the computational efficiency of search pipelines. In detector characterization, data mining techniques are used to classify and understand un-modelled noise sources in the detector arising from terrestrial sources. This understanding leads to better, more realistic noise models that can be used to test search algorithms. Both the fields require close interaction with experimentalists working on the detectors themselves. In this respect, we have the benefit of having a GW experimental group within the department.

Astrophysics research at UTRGV involves modeling populations of compact object binaries in the Galaxy and its environs in order to determine how gravitational wave observations can shed light on models of stellar evolution and Galactic structure. This research is relevant to gravitational wave observations using LISA, LIGO/Virgo, and the Pulsar Timing Array.

Globular clusters are old, spherical, and densely populated groups of stars that host various types of exotic systems, also known as compact binaries—pairs of stars bound by gravity in very short orbits, with at least one member being a stellar remnant or compact object. The researcher identifies and characterizes these exotic binaries within such crowded environments using multiwavelength observations, while also investigating how stellar dynamics influences their populations and, in turn, how these populations affect the overall evolution of the clusters.

These are rare binary systems containing white dwarfs with orbital periods of less than one hour. The researcher employs various techniques to detect these elusive systems in the solar neighborhood and in globular clusters — a task that presents significant observational challenges. The study also focuses on the interactions between the binary components and the mechanisms responsible for their transient, outburst-like behavior.

Partnering with the Texas A&M University Munnerlyn Instrumentation Laboratory, astronomers at UTRGV are developing new and exciting instruments for large ground-based observatories. These include spectrophotometers, imaging cameras, spectrographs, and even a set of meteor cameras to be distributed across Texas.