Frequency-domain P-approximant filters for time-truncated inspiral gravitational wave signals from compact binaries

Abstract

Frequency-domain filters for time-windowed gravitational waves from inspiralling compact binaries are constructed which combine the excellent performance of our previously developed time-domain P-approximants with the analytic convenience of the stationary phase approximation without a serious loss in event rate. These Fourier-domain representations incorporate the ``edge oscillations'' due to the (assumed) abrupt shut-off of the time-domain signal caused by the relativistic plunge at the last stable orbit. These new analytic approximations, the SPP-approximants, are not only `effectual' for detection and `faithful' for parameter estimation, but are also computationally inexpensive to generate (and are `faster' by factors up to 10, as compared to the corresponding time-domain templates). The SPP approximants should provide data analysts the Fourier-domain templates for massive black hole binaries of total mass m less than about 40 solar mases, the most likely sources for LIGO and VIRGO.