Identifying Host Galaxies of Binary Black Hole Mergers with Next-Generation Gravitational Wave Detector Networks

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ID: 316917
2026
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Abstract
Abstract Identifying the host galaxy of a binary black hole (BBH) merger detected via gravitational waves (GWs) remains a challenge due to the absence of electromagnetic counterparts and the large localization volumes produced by current-generation detectors. A confident host association would provide stellar population properties to constrain BBH formation channels and enable measurements of cosmological parameters such as the Hubble constant, H0. We simulate BBH mergers in nearby (z < 0.25) host galaxies to evaluate the feasibility of host identification with future GW detector networks, including configurations with the planned LIGO-India detector and third-generation detectors such as the Einstein Telescope (ET) and Cosmic Explorer (CE). We construct two injection grids to explore variations in BBH mass, distance, and directional sensitivity, and infer localization volumes using the Fisher Information Matrix (FIM)-based parameter estimation implemented through BILBY. To assess the prospects for unique host identification, we introduce a set of diagnostics: theoretical comoving volume thresholds, a metallicity-based volume threshold, stellar mass fractions, and the probability of chance alignment (pc). These metrics provide ways to evaluate host associations and constrain BBH formation channels. We find that networks that include ET and CE localize BBH mergers to volumes smaller than those theoretical thresholds, implying unique host identification, out to ~1000 Mpc at a rate of 100 yr−1. While associations for individual events may remain uncertain, our framework is well-suited to population-level analyses, enabling constraints on BBH formation scenarios in the era of next-generation GW networks.
Reference Key
openalex_W7164146416 Use this key to autocite in the manuscript while using SciMatic Manuscript Manager or Thesis Manager
Authors Sumedha Biswas, Andrew Levan, Peter G Jonker, Kendall Ackley, G. Ashton, Nikhil Sarin
Journal monthly notices of the royal astronomical society
Year 2026
DOI
10.1093/mnras/stag1079
URL
https://doi.org/10.1093/mnras/stag1079
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