A Quantum Gravity Extension of the Inflationary Scenario

TL;DR

This paper extends the inflationary cosmology framework to include quantum gravity effects from the Planck scale using loop quantum gravity, potentially revealing new observable phenomena like non-Gaussianities.

Contribution

It introduces a self-consistent quantum gravity extension of inflation covering from the Planck era to slow roll, bridging a gap in the standard paradigm.

Findings

Extends inflationary models to include Planck scale physics.

Suggests potential observational signatures such as non-Gaussianities.

Provides a framework for quantum gravity effects in early universe cosmology.

Abstract

Since the standard inflationary paradigm is based on quantum field theory on classical space-times, it excludes the Planck era. Using techniques from loop quantum gravity, the paradigm is extended to a self-consistent theory from the Planck scale to the onset of slow roll inflation, covering some 11 orders of magnitude in energy density and curvature. This pre-inflationary dynamics also opens a small window for novel effects, e.g. a source for non-Gaussianities, which could extend the reach of cosmological observations to the deep Planck regime of the early universe.