Abstract
We propose consistency tests for the cosmological constant which provide a direct observational signal if is wrong, regardless of the densities of matter and curvature. As an example of its utility, our flat case test can warn of a small transition of the equation of state from of 20% from SNAP (Supernova Acceleration Probe) quality data at 4-, even when direct reconstruction techniques see virtually no evidence for deviation from . It is shown to successfully rule out a wide range of non- dark energy models with no reliance on knowledge of using SNAP quality data and a large range for using supernovae as forecasted for the Large Synoptic Survey Telescope.
- Received 29 July 2008
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.101.181301
©2008 American Physical Society
Synopsis
Cosmic consistency check
Published 3 November 2008
At the current time, we cannot tell if Einstein’s cosmological constant—or some other theory—is the correct description for dark energy in the Universe. A proposed measure based on existing data may help us to better distinguish these ideas.
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