Addressing the Crisis in Fundamental Physics

TL;DR

This paper advocates for space-based fundamental physics experiments to better understand dark energy, emphasizing their potential to address current observational limitations and prevent stagnation in cosmological research.

Contribution

It highlights the importance and potential advantages of space experiments in probing dark energy and fundamental physics, proposing a strategic focus on space-based research.

Findings

Space experiments can provide unique data on dark energy.

Current observations favor a constant dark energy equation of state.

Space-based experiments could prevent stagnation in fundamental physics research.

Abstract

I present the case for fundamental physics experiments in space playing an important role in addressing the current "dark energy'' crisis. If cosmological observations continue to favor a value of the dark energy equation of state parameter w=-1, with no change over cosmic time, then we will have difficulty understanding this new fundamental physics. We will then face a very real risk of stagnation unless we detect some other experimental anomaly. The advantages of space-based experiments could prove invaluable in the search for the a more complete understanding of dark energy. This talk was delivered at the start of the Fundamental Physics Research in Space Workshop in May 2006.