Abstract

Here, we investigate the use of the Lorene code to generate quasi-equilibrium initial data for close binary neutron star configurations. The code has been widely used throughout the field of numerical relativity, and is capable of generating initial data for a wide range of neutron star equations of state and binary mass ratios. We also explore the ranges of parameter space for which the code can generate accurate initial data, and the nature of the instabilities that arise when the code is asked to produce data outside this range. This work should aid other groups performing merger simulations of binary neutron star systems to select appropriate initial data with which to launch simulations. We also report on a code for calculating photon geodesics moving within the curved spacetime of a black hole. The ultimate goal of this work is to calculate approximations for the light deflection in terms of the initial parameters of the system. An error analysis is conducted for the code, and future work on the numerical approach is discussed.

Publication Date

5-2024

Document Type

Thesis

Student Type

Graduate

Degree Name

Astrophysical Sciences and Technology (MS)

Department, Program, or Center

Physics and Astronomy, School of

College

College of Science

Advisor

Yosef Zlochower

Advisor/Committee Member

Jason Nordhaus

Advisor/Committee Member

Joshua Faber

Campus

RIT – Main Campus

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