Adding gamma-ray polarimetry to the multi-messenger era

Abstract

Context. The last decade has seen the emergence of two new fields within astrophysics: gamma-ray polarimetry and gravitational wave (GW) astronomy. The former, which aims to measure the polarization of gamma rays in the energy range of tens to hundreds of keV, from astrophysical sources, saw the launch of the first dedicated polarimeters such as GAP and POLAR. Due to both a large scientific interest as well as their large signal-to-noise ratios, gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) are the primary source of interest of the first generation of polarimeters. Polarization measurements are theorized to provide a unique probe of the mechanisms at play in these extreme phenomena. On the other hand, GW astronomy started with the detection of the first black hole mergers by LIGO in 2015, followed by the first multi-messenger detection in 2017. Aims. While the potential of the two individual fields has been discussed in detail in the literature, the potential for joint observations has thus far been ignored. In this article, we aim to define how GW observations can best contribute to gamma-ray polarimetry and study the scientific potential of joint analyses. In addition, we aim to provide predictions on feasibility of such joint measurements in the near future. Methods. We study which GW observables can be combined with measurements from gamma-ray polarimetry to improve the discriminating power regarding GRB emission models. We then provide forecasts for the joint detection capabilities of current and future GW detectors and polarimeters. Results. Our results show that by adding GW data to polarimetry, a single precise joint detection would allow for the majority of emission models to be ruled out. We show that in the coming years, joint detections between GW and gamma-ray polarimeters might already be possible. Although these would allow one to constrain part of the model space, the probability of highly constraining joint detections will remain small in the near future. However, the scientific merit held by even a single such measurement makes it important to pursue such an endeavour. Furthermore, we show that using the next generation of GW detectors, such as the Einstein Telescope, joint detections for which GW data can better complement the polarization data become possible.