Fundamental Physics and Observational Cosmology

我们的目标是通过开发早期宇宙理论的可测试特征来推进观测宇宙学与基础物理学之间的对抗，这些理论与stfc支持的卫星和其他实验（如普朗克和克拉弗）直接相关。这项工作需要做出详细的定量观测预测，可以用来区分不同的暴胀模型，以及那些涉及宇宙超弦和结构的模型。特别是，我们希望研究基础理论中从高维模型中产生的宇宙学，并发现将这些模型与传统的四维模型区分开来的方法。我们还将使用来自宇宙晚期的数据来开发宇宙常数、暗能量和自然基本常数变化的探测器。此外，我们还将开展一个新的引力物理项目，研究黑洞的存在、形成和后果。我们将考虑额外维度的独特特征，黑洞的实验研究可能会揭示这些特征。

We aim to advance the confrontation between observational cosmology and fundamental physics by developing testable signatures of early universe theories which are of direct relevance to STFC-supported satellite and other experiments, such as Planck and Clover. This work entails making detailed quantitative observational predictions which can be used to distinguish between different inflation models, as well as those involving cosmic superstrings and textures. In particular, we wish to study cosmologies emerging from higher dimensional models in fundamental theory, and discover ways in which to differentiate these from conventional four-dimensional models. We will also use data from the late universe to develop probes of the cosmological constant, dark energy and the variation of the fundamental constants of nature. In addition, we will embark on a new project in gravitational physics, studying the existence, formation and consequences of black holes. We will consider the distinctive signatures of extra dimensions which the experimental study of black holes may be able to uncover.