Obiettivo 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. Campo scientifico humanitieshistory and archaeologyhistorynatural sciencesphysical sciencesquantum physicsquantum field theorynatural sciencesphysical sciencesastronomyphysical cosmologynatural sciencesphysical sciencestheoretical physics Programma(i) 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) Argomento(i) ERC-CG-2013-PE9 - ERC Consolidator Grant - Universe Sciences Invito a presentare proposte ERC-2013-CoG Vedi altri progetti per questo bando Meccanismo di finanziamento ERC-CG - ERC Consolidator Grants Istituzione ospitante KATHOLIEKE UNIVERSITEIT LEUVEN Contributo UE € 1 995 900,00 Indirizzo OUDE MARKT 13 3000 Leuven Belgio Mostra sulla mappa Regione Vlaams Gewest Prov. Vlaams-Brabant Arr. Leuven Tipo di attività Higher or Secondary Education Establishments Contatto amministrativo Stijn Delauré (Dr.) Ricercatore principale Thomas Hertog (Prof.) Collegamenti Contatta l’organizzazione Opens in new window Sito web Opens in new window Costo totale Nessun dato Beneficiari (1) Classifica in ordine alfabetico Classifica per Contributo UE Espandi tutto Riduci tutto KATHOLIEKE UNIVERSITEIT LEUVEN Belgio Contributo UE € 1 995 900,00 Indirizzo OUDE MARKT 13 3000 Leuven Mostra sulla mappa Regione Vlaams Gewest Prov. Vlaams-Brabant Arr. Leuven Tipo di attività Higher or Secondary Education Establishments Contatto amministrativo Stijn Delauré (Dr.) Ricercatore principale Thomas Hertog (Prof.) Collegamenti Contatta l’organizzazione Opens in new window Sito web Opens in new window Costo totale Nessun dato
