preprints.org > physical sciences > astronomy and astrophysics > doi: 10.20944/preprints202309.0873.v7 (registering DOI)

Preprint Article Version 7 This version is not peer-reviewed

Version 1 : Received: 7 September 2023 / Approved: 13 September 2023 / Online: 13 September 2023 (10:05:21 CEST)
Version 2 : Received: 18 September 2023 / Approved: 18 September 2023 / Online: 25 September 2023 (04:49:46 CEST)
Version 3 : Received: 6 January 2024 / Approved: 8 January 2024 / Online: 8 January 2024 (06:37:58 CET)
Version 4 : Received: 27 January 2024 / Approved: 29 January 2024 / Online: 29 January 2024 (04:48:12 CET)
Version 5 : Received: 11 April 2024 / Approved: 11 April 2024 / Online: 12 April 2024 (04:53:47 CEST)
Version 6 : Received: 28 June 2024 / Approved: 1 July 2024 / Online: 1 July 2024 (08:12:07 CEST)
Version 7 : Received: 16 August 2024 / Approved: 20 August 2024 / Online: 21 August 2024 (13:38:50 CEST)

In relativity, the newtonian concepts of velocity and acceleration are observer-dependent quantities that vary with the chosen frame of reference. It is well established that, in the comoving frame, cosmic expansion is currently accelerating; however, in the rest frame, this expansion is actually decelerating. In this paper, we explore the implications of this distinction. The traditional measure of cosmic acceleration, denoted by \( q \), is derived from the comoving frame and describes the acceleration of the scale factor \( a \) for a 3D space-like homogeneous sphere. We introduce a new parameter, \( q_E \), representing the acceleration experienced between observers within the light cone. By comparing \( q_E \) to the traditional \( q \), using observational data from Type Ia supernovae (SN) and the radial clustering of galaxies and quasars (BAO)—including the latest results from DESI2024—our analysis demonstrates that \( q_E \) aligns more closely with this data. The core argument of the paper is that $\Lambda$—regardless of its origin—creates an Event Horizon that divides the manifold into causally disconnected regions, analogous to conditions inside a black hole’s interior, thereby allowing for a rest frame perspective $q_E$ in which cosmic expansion appears to be decelerating and the horizon acts like a friction term. Such horizon suggests that the universe cannot maintain homogeneity outside. The observed cosmological constant \( \Lambda \) can then be interpreted not as a driver of new dark energy or a modification of gravity, but as a boundary term exerting an attractive force, akin to a rubber band, resisting further expansion and preventing event horizon crossings. This interpretation calls for a reconsideration of current cosmological models and the assumptions underlying them.

cosmology; dark energy; general relativity; black holes

Physical Sciences, Astronomy and Astrophysics

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