Loredo, T. J. From Laplace to supernova SN 1987A: Bayesian inference in astrophysics. (English) Zbl 0736.62025 Maximum entropy and Bayesian methods, Proc. 9th Workshop, Dartmouth/MA (USA) 1989, Fundam. Theor. Phys. 39, 81-142 (1990). Summary: [For the entire collection see Zbl 0732.00013.] The Bayesian approach to probability theory is presented as an alternative to the currently used long-run relative frequency approach, which does not offer clear, compelling criteria for the design of statistical methods. Bayesian probability theory offers unique and demonstrably optimal solutions to well-posed statistical problems, and is historically the original approach to statistics. The reasons for earlier rejection of Bayesian methods are discussed, and it is noted that the work of Cox, Jaynes, and others answers earlier objections, giving Bayesian inference a firm logical and mathematical foundation as the correct mathematical language for quantifying uncertainty. The Bayesian approaches to parameter estimation and model comparison are outlined and illustrated by application to a simple problem based on the Gaussian distribution. As further illustrations of the Bayesian paradigm, Bayesian solutions to two interesting astrophysical problems are outlined: the measurement of weak signals in a strong background, and the analysis of the neutrinos detected from supernova SN 1987A. A brief bibliography of astrophysically interesting applications of Bayesian inference is provided. Cited in 5 Documents MSC: 62F15 Bayesian inference 62P99 Applications of statistics Keywords:parameter estimation; model comparison; Gaussian distribution; measurement of weak signals; neutrinos; supernova SN 1987A PDF BibTeX XML