M-theory and the birth of the Universe

TL;DR

This paper reviews how M-theory and the IIB matrix model might explain the origin of the universe by replacing the big bang singularity with a spacetime defect and exploring new physics phases.

Contribution

It proposes a novel approach to regularize the big bang singularity using spacetime defects within the M-theory framework and explores the IIB matrix model as a tool for this investigation.

Findings

Regularization of the big bang singularity as a spacetime defect

Exploratory calculations using the IIB matrix model

Hypothesis of a new physics phase leading to the spacetime defect

Abstract

In this review article, we first discuss a possible regularization of the big bang curvature singularity of the standard Friedmann cosmology, where the curvature singularity is replaced by a spacetime defect. We then consider the hypothesis that a new physics phase gave rise to this particular spacetime defect. Specifically, we set out on an explorative calculation using the IIB matrix model, which has been proposed as a particular formulation of nonperturbative superstring theory (M-theory).