Estimate of the weight of empty space based on astronomical observations

TL;DR

This paper proposes that a universal linear response of vacuum energy to gravitational potential explains Pioneer anomalies and galactic orbital deviations, linking fundamental physics to astronomical observations.

Contribution

It introduces a novel explanation for anomalies in spacecraft and galaxy motions based on vacuum energy response to gravity.

Findings

Explains Pioneer anomalies without new forces

Accounts for galactic orbital deviations

Links vacuum energy to gravitational effects

Abstract

As a consequence of the equivalence principle and of the existence of a negative vacuum energy, we show how a weak but universal linear response of the vacuum to a local gravitational potential suffices to explain the main features of so-called Pioneer anomalies as well as the apparent departure from the third Kepler law which has been observed at the level of numerous galaxies.