Harvard University Department of Astronomy

The Cosmological Constant Some future issues in cosmology Basic Idea: As the cosmological parameters become more and more precisely determined, what other questions will be guiding the field? Theory: questions about building blocks of paradigm Determining parameters-- question of whether Lambda has been constant over history of universe, or else characterization of equation of state Nature of energy densities baryonic matter: where and what dark matter properties: limits on interactions, clustering dynamic microlensing searches direct searches for interactions (particle physics) luminous vs. dark matter: bias Formation of structure: consequences of paradigm of hierarchical structure formation: identification and characterization of properties--scales, relevant interactions dark matter dominated processes (gravity alone), cosmic web hydrodynamic processes, radiative transfer additional astrophysical processes/effects numerical and analytical approaches These are questions we know we know lie ahead. Much of the progress has been due to advances in observational and numerical techniques and instruments and here there is rapid progress: Upcoming observations: Planned surveys: inventory and characterization of universe in many wavelengths optical: SDSS, AAd2F, DEEP, etc. xray: XMM, other proposals en route weak lensing SZ sub mm etc. Instruments etc. National Virtual Observatory Numerical simulations Specific systems and eras which are under study by observation, numerical simulations and theory early objects first stars reionization and the end of the dark ages: what and how? high redshift searches evolving features, e.g. metallicity backgrounds besides those already discussed: X-Ray, gamma ray, FIR, sub mm etc. their measurement resolution into sources and nature of sources other specific systems: formation, evolution, structure galaxies galaxy clusters large scale structure (flows, etc.) cross correlations implied by paradigm or variations thereof Particle cosmology questions What is the inflaton? nature of dark matter predictions for lambda, quintessence upcoming observations accelerator searches neutrino detectors, amanda, superK Some references Home Syllabus References Lecture References Useful Links Contact Info Back to Harvard University Department of Astronomy Academics. Back to Harvard University Department of Astronomy Courses.