GRB Progenitor Classification from Gamma-Ray Burst Prompt and Afterglow Observations

Abstract

Using an established classification technique, we leverage standard observations and analyses to predict the progenitors of gamma-ray bursts (GRBs). This technique, utilizing support vector machine statistics, provides a more nuanced prediction than the previous two-component Gaussian mixture in duration of the prompt gamma-ray emission. Based on further covariance testing from Fermi/Gamma Ray Burst Monitor, Swift/Burst Alert Telescope, and Swift/X-Ray Telescope data, we find that our classification based only on prompt emission properties gives perspective on the recent evidence that mergers and collapsars exist in both “long” and “short” GRB populations.

Keywords

• Gamma-ray bursts
• Support vector machine
• Astrostatistics techniques
• Classification