(Gravitational) Vacuum Cherenkov Radiation

TL;DR

This paper reviews theoretical aspects of vacuum Cherenkov radiation caused by potential Lorentz invariance violations, focusing on both Minkowski spacetime and gravitational contexts within the Standard Model Extension.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive overview of vacuum Cherenkov radiation phenomena in Lorentz-violating theories, emphasizing gravitational effects and the properties of the gravitational SME.

Findings

Overview of Lorentz violation effects on Cherenkov radiation

Comparison between Minkowski and gravitational Cherenkov radiation

Discussion of conditions for vacuum Cherenkov radiation occurrence

Abstract

This work reviews our current understanding of Cherenkov-type processes in vacuum that may occur due to a possible violation of Lorentz invariance. The description of Lorentz violation is based on the Standard Model Extension (SME). To get an overview as general as possible, the most important findings for vacuum Cherenkov radiation in Minkowski spacetime are discussed. After doing so, special emphasis is put on gravitational Cherenkov radiation. For a better understanding, the essential properties of the gravitational SME are recalled in this context. The common grounds and differences of vacuum Cherenkov radiation in Minkowski spacetime and in the gravity sector are emphasized.