Non-Gaussian spectra and the search for cosmic strings

Abstract

We present a new tool for relating theory and experiment suited for non-Gaussian theories: non-Gaussian spectra. It does for non-Gaussian theories what the angular power spectrum $C_\ell$ does for Gaussian theories. We then show how previous studies of cosmic strings have over rated their non-Gaussian signature. More realistic maps are not visually stringy. However non-Gaussian spectra will accuse their stringiness. We finally summarise the steps of an undergoing experimental project aiming at searching for cosmic strings by means of this technique.