Snowmass2021 Theory Frontier White Paper: Data-Driven Cosmology

TL;DR

This white paper discusses the role of theoretical models and simulations in interpreting cosmological data that suggest physics beyond the Standard Model, emphasizing future needs for data-driven cosmology.

Contribution

It outlines the key areas of theoretical research needed to maximize the scientific return from upcoming cosmological surveys and data sets.

Findings

Strong evidence for dark matter, dark energy, and neutrino mass from data

Development of models from string theory to effective field theories

Importance of large-scale simulations for galaxy evolution

Abstract

Over the past few decades, astronomical and cosmological data sets firmly established the existence of physics beyond the Standard Model of particle physics by providing strong evidence for the existence of dark matter, dark energy, and non-zero neutrino mass. In addition, the generation of primordial perturbations most likely also relies on physics beyond the Standard Model of particle physics. Theory work, ranging from models of the early universe in string theory that that led to novel phenomenological predictions to the development of effective field theories to large-scale cosmological simulations that include the physics of galaxy evolution, has played a key role in analyzing and interpreting these data sets and in suggesting novel paths forward to isolate the origins of this new physics. Over the next decade, even more sensitive surveys are beginning to take data and are being planned. In this white paper, we describe key areas of the theory program that will be needed to optimize the physics return on investment from these new observational opportunities.