Objetivo The current theory of cosmic inflation is largely based on classical physics. This undermines its predictivity in a world that is fundamentally quantum mechanical. With this project we will develop a novel approach towards a quantum theory of inflation. We will do this by introducing holographic techniques in cosmology. The notion of holography is the most profound conceptual breakthrough that has emerged form fundamental high-energy physics in recent years. It postulates that (quantum) gravitational systems such as the universe as a whole have a precise `holographic’ description in terms of quantum field theories defined on their boundary. Our aim is to develop a holographic framework for quantum cosmology. We will then apply this to three areas of theoretical cosmology where a quantum approach is of critical importance. First, we will put forward a holographic description of inflation that clarifies its microphysical origin and is rigorously predictive. Using this we will derive the distinct observational signatures of novel, truly holographic models of the early universe where inflation has no description in terms of classical cosmic evolution. Second, we will apply holographic cosmology to improve our understanding of eternal inflation. This is a phase deep into inflation where quantum effects dominate the evolution and affect the universe’s global structure. Finally we will work towards generalizing our holographic models of the primordial universe to include the radiation, matter and vacuum eras. The resulting unification of cosmic history in terms of a single holographic boundary theory may lead to intriguing predictions of correlations between early and late time observables, tying together the universe’s origin with its ultimate fate. Our project has the potential to revolutionize our perspective on cosmology and to further deepen the fruitful interaction between cosmology and high-energy physics. Ámbito científico humanitieshistory and archaeologyhistorynatural sciencesphysical sciencesquantum physicsquantum field theorynatural sciencesphysical sciencesastronomyphysical cosmologynatural sciencesphysical sciencestheoretical physics Programa(s) FP7-IDEAS-ERC - Specific programme: "Ideas" implementing the Seventh Framework Programme of the European Community for research, technological development and demonstration activities (2007 to 2013) Tema(s) ERC-CG-2013-PE9 - ERC Consolidator Grant - Universe Sciences Convocatoria de propuestas ERC-2013-CoG Consulte otros proyectos de esta convocatoria Régimen de financiación ERC-CG - ERC Consolidator Grants Institución de acogida KATHOLIEKE UNIVERSITEIT LEUVEN Aportación de la UE € 1 995 900,00 Dirección OUDE MARKT 13 3000 Leuven Bélgica Ver en el mapa Región Vlaams Gewest Prov. Vlaams-Brabant Arr. Leuven Tipo de actividad Higher or Secondary Education Establishments Contacto administrativo Stijn Delauré (Dr.) Investigador principal Thomas Hertog (Prof.) Enlaces Contactar con la organización Opens in new window Sitio web Opens in new window Coste total Sin datos Beneficiarios (1) Ordenar alfabéticamente Ordenar por aportación de la UE Ampliar todo Contraer todo KATHOLIEKE UNIVERSITEIT LEUVEN Bélgica Aportación de la UE € 1 995 900,00 Dirección OUDE MARKT 13 3000 Leuven Ver en el mapa Región Vlaams Gewest Prov. Vlaams-Brabant Arr. Leuven Tipo de actividad Higher or Secondary Education Establishments Contacto administrativo Stijn Delauré (Dr.) Investigador principal Thomas Hertog (Prof.) Enlaces Contactar con la organización Opens in new window Sitio web Opens in new window Coste total Sin datos