Cosmological tests of modified gravity

We review recent progress in the construction of modified gravity models as alternatives to dark energy as well as the development of cosmological tests of gravity. Einstein's theory of general relativity (GR) has been tested accurately within the local universe i.e. the Solar System, but this leaves the possibility open that it is not a good description of gravity at the largest scales in the Universe. This being said, the standard model of cosmology assumes GR on all scales. In 1998, astronomers made the surprising discovery that the expansion of the Universe is accelerating, not slowing down. This late-time acceleration of the Universe has become the most challenging problem in theoretical physics. Within…

• SA
  Science and Technology Facilities Council

  Awards: ST/N000668/1, ST/L005573/1, ST/K00090X/1, ST/K00090/1, ST/L005573/1
• ER
  European Research Council

  Award: 646702