On the Role of Numerical Relativity in Testing GR using LIGO-Virgo-Kagra observations of Binary Black Hole Mergers
by
Abbeanum/1 - HS2 - Straubel-HS
TPI, FSU Jena
s the sensitivity of the LIGO–Virgo–KAGRA detector network improves, gravitational-wave
observations are moving from detections to precision measurements. We can now observe compact-
binary mergers at larger distances, probe earlier cosmic epochs, and study exceptionally loud
events in unprecedented detail. These observations enable sharper tests of general relativity, more
informative measurements of compact-object populations, and increasingly stringent requirements
on the waveform models that connect strong-field source dynamics to detector data. In this talk,
I will address the importance and the role of Numerical Relativity, along with the main results
from this precision regime: i) Area law test of GR with GW250114, the loudest event observed to
date, ii) importance of Numerical Relativity simulations in understanding spurious violations of
GR [1–6].
I will conclude by discussing evidence from recent research that suggests an amusing possibility:
that binary black-hole mergers may exhibit a thermodynamic character, and nature may select
the final state through a maximum-entropy conjecture for black-hole mergers [7].