Following the improvements to the array, and then seeing something just over the 5 sigma threshold is just what one would expect, if the theoretical angle is correct (machine design, relativity, analysis of signal).
If the first detected signal after the upgrade was something they would have seen with the old set up it would inspire some doubt. Am I correct they can still 'tweak' the array a little more? If so, as the volume of observable space increases we should see the noted above increase in the number of detections.
Also, they've seen something over a billion LY away at a combined mass around 60 suns. With each subsequent detection and analysis, they will be building statistics on the numbers of such objects in our neighborhood of the universe, and compare that to predictions.
In fact, we already have, to a degree, some stats, prior to the upgrade: they did NOT see, for instance, a 600 solar mass thud at 1/2 the distance during that detection time. I'm sure there are VERY few such systems within that range. As the detectors improve, and the range increases along with the observing time, they'll see more objects, smaller ones closer, and possibly some considerably larger further out.
If the first detected signal after the upgrade was something they would have seen with the old set up it would inspire some doubt. Am I correct they can still 'tweak' the array a little more? If so, as the volume of observable space increases we should see the noted above increase in the number of detections.
Also, they've seen something over a billion LY away at a combined mass around 60 suns. With each subsequent detection and analysis, they will be building statistics on the numbers of such objects in our neighborhood of the universe, and compare that to predictions.
In fact, we already have, to a degree, some stats, prior to the upgrade: they did NOT see, for instance, a 600 solar mass thud at 1/2 the distance during that detection time. I'm sure there are VERY few such systems within that range. As the detectors improve, and the range increases along with the observing time, they'll see more objects, smaller ones closer, and possibly some considerably larger further out.
The granting of a pardon is an imputation of guilt, and the acceptance a confession of it.
