Time, Fluxes and String Theory

空间和时间的起源是自然界经久不衰的奥秘之一。空间和时间是在某种大爆炸中出现的吗？宇宙会在一次大挤压中结束吗？我们能合理地描述这些奇异的高量子自然状态吗？为了回答这些关于空间和时间本质的基本问题，我们需要引力的量子理论。弦理论仍然是这种理论的最佳候选者。这个项目的第一个目标是通过研究奇异和非奇异的时间依赖背景来探索弦论中时间的本质。第二个目标是进一步探索通量紧致化的物理学，重点是杂种弦和模量稳定化之间的关系，粒子物理学标准模型的出现和宇宙学。该项目的更广泛影响集中在通过学校和研讨会的讲座以及通过直接合作改善与宇宙学家和数学家的跨学科联系。更广泛影响的第二个方面是通过PI继续参与太空探索者内城K-12浓缩计划。

The origins of space and time are one of the enduring mysteries of nature. Did space and time emerge in some kind of Big Bang? Will the universe end in a Big Crunch? Can we sensibly describe these singular highly quantum states of nature? In order to answer such basic questions about the nature of space and time, we need a quantum theory of gravity. String theory remains the best candidate for such a theory. The first aim of this project is to explore the nature of time in string theory through the study of both singular and non-singular time-dependent backgrounds. The second aim is to further explore the physics of flux compactifications with a focus on the heterotic string and the relation between moduli stabilization, the emergence of the Standard Model of Particle Physics and cosmology. The broader impact of this project centers on improved interdisciplinary ties with both cosmologists and mathematicians through lectures at schools and workshops, and through direct collaboration. A second aspect of the broader impact is via the PI continuing his participation in the Space Explorers innercity K-12 enrichment program.