Gravitational Physics from the Cosmic Microwave Background

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The Princeton Gravity Group will continue its exploration of gravitational physics and cosmology through the experimental study of the cosmic microwave background (CMB) radiation. The CMB is the fiery afterglow of the Big Bang. Measurements of the CMB form the bedrock foundation of the standard cosmological model. Our work builds on and extends previous work that characterized the temperature and polarization anisotropies (variations in the spatial distribution of the radiation) and laid the foundation for the WMAP satellite. We will measure the fine angular scale temperature anisotropy (l1000) and polarization to understand the dark energy, dark matter, mass of the neutrino, and ionization history of the universe. Results from our experiments are anticipated to directly inform us of the inflationary epoch.The broader impacts of the proposed research include substantial educational development for students, continued public outreach, and the scientific impacts mentioned above. The Princeton group will continue its vigorous program of hands-on research for undergraduates and graduate students. As one example, we have supervised over 40 summer students over the past three years, including 14 women and minorities. Group members will continue to give frequent public talks and interviews, mentor the local Society of Physics Students, interact with local school groups, develop new classes, and maintain public web pages.