HoloFlat · Holography for Asymptotically Flat Spacetimes

Holography for Asymptotically Flat Spacetimes

Over the last 25 years, there has been immense progress in understanding the elusive nature of quantum gravity and black holes by using the so-called holographic principle. This principle states that a theory of quantum gravity in a given region of spacetime can be equivalently described in terms of a quantum field theory encoded at the boundary of said region. This duality allows one to translate very complicated problems into accessible ones and provides a sneak peek at the principles a consistent theory of quantum gravity should obey. However, until now, most holographic applications only apply to specific situations. In particular, holographic applications to realistic spacetimes, such as the ones we live in, have not been developed yet. Most spacetimes relevant for astrophysical purposes are characterized by having a vanishing cosmological constant or phrased more geometrically; they are asymptotically flat, in a very similar sense as a sheet of paper is flat. The main objective of this project is to establish a fundamental understanding of quantum gravity for asymptotically flat spacetimes by developing novel holographic tools. This will be done first in a simplified setup where one has a very high degree of control and then extended to more realistic setups. The long-term goal of HoloFlat is to apply these tools to astrophysical black holes to gain a deeper understanding of these objects at a quantum level. Right now is a fascinating time to study quantum gravity and black holes. Thanks to the overwhelming evidence provided by LIGO gravitational wave observatory and the genuine black hole images the Event Horizon Telescope has provided us, we now also have access to a wealth of experimental data that can be used to test theoretical predictions about quantum gravity via black holes. The importance of this project is rooted in its profound implications for our understanding of quantum gravity and black hole physics. Furthermore, the holographic principle is an inherently interdisciplinary field of research, and discoveries regarding the holographic nature of quantum gravity in asymptotically flat spacetimes will unveil novel connections between previously disconnected research fields. The conclusions of this Marie Skłodowska-Curie Action are: 1) The infinite-dimensional symmetries at the boundary of asymptotically flat spacetimes give rise to a novel kind of quantum field theory that provides fundamental insights into quantum gravity. 2) There is an intimate connection between quantum information and geometry that also extends to asymptotically flat spacetimes. 3) A thorough understanding of the dual quantum field theories is key to revealing the holographic properties of black holes.

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