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Challenging the Theories of Dark Energy and the Expanding Universe with Photon Drag Mechanisms

CSEF · 2003 Physics & Astronomy

Peter A. Lee · York School, Monterey

Overview

Objectives/Goals Challenging the notion that intergalactic redshift is caused solely by Doppler-style galactic recession, this project identifies and characterizes two previously unevaluated non-Doppler causes of redshift to determine whether these tired-light photon energy loss mechanisms, gravitational drag and electric field drag, contribute to intergalactic redshift, thereby reducing or eliminating the need for the stop-gap theory of dark energy. Methods/Materials To evaluate the impact of photon drag mechanisms, two physics-based finite element computer models were written to analyze gravitational drag and electric field drag. Results The models successfully characterized gravitational drag and electric field drag and determined that they contribute at least part or perhaps all of observed intergalactic redshift. Conclusions/Discussion Given these results, the Doppler effect must play a smaller role in causing intergalactic redshift, which means that the universe is expanding more slowly, if at all, than is currently believed. Consequently, dark energy may not exist.

Summary statement

Analyzing previously overlooked interactions between photons and deep-space hydrogen atoms reveals that the universe may not be expanding and dark energy may not exist.

Help received

Parents helped assemble board

Competition history

  • CSEF 2003 Physics & Astronomy · Entry S1515

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