Abstract:
I will summarize the results of the Cornell-Caltech simulations
of compact binaries of black holes and neutron stars. Using a
multi-domain pseudospectral method, we achieve very accurate
simulations of the inspiral and merger of binary black hole
systems, allowing us to test the post-Newtonian approximation,
and calibrate analytical waveform templates based on the
effective-one-body formalism. Using a mixed pseudospectral and
finite difference method to simulate black hole - neutron star
binaries, we are exploring the effects of the spin of the black
hole and the equation of state of the neutron star upon the
emitted gravitational waves, and upon the formation of an
accretion disk that may be able to power a short-duration
gamma-ray burst.
