Powered by Indico
v3.2.8
Cosmic birefringence, the rotation of the linear polarization plane of CMB photons as they travel across the Universe, provides a unique opportunity to probe new physics. In particular, this effect suggests a violation of parity symmetry, potentially arising from interactions beyond the Standard Model of particle physics.
In this talk, I explore the theoretical motivations behind cosmic birefringence, including its connection to CPT and Lorentz symmetry violations, as well as the role of pseudo-scalar fields like axions.
I present the observational efforts to detect cosmic birefringence using CMB polarization data, and how upcoming experiments aim to refine present constraints.
The current cosmological model includes elements that might require new physics beyond the Standard Model of elementary particles for their explanation. If detected, cosmic birefringence could reveal new physics, challenge the cosmological paradigm, and offer clues about the early Universe and its evolution.