Detector orientation matters: Consequences for gravitational-wave background detectability

Authors

• Nelson Christensen
• Joseph D. Romano, The University of Texas Rio Grande ValleyFollow
• Mairi Sakellariadou
• Jishnu Suresh

Document Type

Letter to the Editor

Publication Date

10-5-2026

Abstract

Cross-correlation searches for gravitational-wave backgrounds depend on the geometrical configuration (physical separation and relative orientation) of the detectors comprising the network. Applying standard techniques to a few simple examples, we illustrate how the relative orientation of a pair of Earth-based L-shaped laser interferometers can drastically impact the detectability of both isotropic and anisotropic gravitational-wave backgrounds.

Recommended Citation

Christensen, Nelson, Joseph D. Romano, Mairi Sakellariadou, and Jishnu Suresh. "Detector orientation matters: Consequences for gravitational-wave background detectability." Physical Review D 114, no. 8 (2026): L081101. https://doi.org/10.1103/pb46-wwt8

Publication Title

Physical Review D

DOI

10.1103/pb46-wwt8