Prospects for the Detection of High-redshift Gamma-Ray Bursts in the Era of EP and SVOM
Gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) are a promising probe of the high-redshift Universe, but their detection remains observationally challenging. In this work, we explore the detectability of high- z GRBs by the Wide-field X-ray Telescope (WXT) on board the Einstein Probe (EP) and the coded-mask gamma-ray image...
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| Main Authors: | , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
IOP Publishing
2025-01-01
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| Series: | The Astrophysical Journal Letters |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://doi.org/10.3847/2041-8213/adf112 |
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| Summary: | Gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) are a promising probe of the high-redshift Universe, but their detection remains observationally challenging. In this work, we explore the detectability of high- z GRBs by the Wide-field X-ray Telescope (WXT) on board the Einstein Probe (EP) and the coded-mask gamma-ray imager (ECLAIRs) on board the Space-based multi-band astronomical Variable Objects Monitor (SVOM). Using a population synthesis model calibrated to Swift GRB observations, we develop a tool to estimate high- z GRB detection rates for instruments with specific energy bands and sensitivities. Our results indicate that EP/WXT could detect $\sim 5.{1}_{-2.4}^{+3.4}$ (with 68% confidence level) GRBs annually at z > 6, compared to $\sim 0.{7}_{-0.4}^{+1.0}$ events per year at z > 6 for SVOM/ECLAIRs. While EP cannot independently determine redshifts (requiring optical/near-infrared, NIR, follow-up), its assumed ∼30% follow-up efficiency yields $\sim 1.{5}_{-0.7}^{+1.0}$ confirmed z > 6 GRBs annually. SVOM, equipped with dedicated follow-up telescopes, will promptly identify high- z candidates deserving deep NIR spectroscopy to ensure robust confirmation of high- z GRBs. We anticipate that EP and SVOM will open new avenues for utilizing enlarged samples of high- z GRBs to explore the early Universe. Moreover, EP will assemble a substantial sample of soft, low-luminosity GRBs at low-to-intermediate redshifts, providing critical insights into the structure of GRB jets. |
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| ISSN: | 2041-8205 |