Export citation

Export citation

Choose format for download:

Download Citation
  • Featured in Physics

Probing Vector Chirality in the Early Universe

Junsup Shim1,*, Ue-Li Pen1,2,3,4,5,6, Hao-Ran Yu7, and Teppei Okumura1,8

  • *Contact author: jshim@asiaa.sinica.edu.tw

Phys. Rev. Lett. 135, 141002 – Published 30 September, 2025

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/ym2n-lzts

Abstract

We explore the potential of using late-time galaxy spins to test the parity symmetry of primordial vector fossils. Using N-body simulations, we analyze halo spins as a reliable proxy for galaxy spins to investigate the detectability of this effect. We develop a novel approach to generate initial conditions (ICs) that have substantial parity asymmetry but do not alter the initial matter power spectrum. We construct the initial spin fields from the parity broken ICs and halo spin fields using late-time halos evolved from such ICs. Focusing on the helicity of these vector fields, we detect substantial asymmetry in the initial spin field. In addition, we find that over 50% of the initial spin field’s asymmetry remains in the late-time halo spin field on a range of scales. Based on mock galaxy spin fields derived from the halo spin fields, we forecast that a maximum detection at 13σ is possible with the final DESI BGS for the model considered in this analysis. Our findings demonstrate that primordial vectorial parity violation survives nonlinear gravitational evolution, and thus, can be effectively probed with galaxy spins at late times.

Physics Subject Headings (PhySH)

synopsis

Cosmic Handedness Might Show Up in Galaxy Spins

Published 30 September, 2025

Cosmological simulations show that a left–right asymmetry in the early Universe could leave a mark in the distribution of galaxy rotations.

See more in Physics

Authorization Required

We need you to provide your credentials before accessing this content.

References (Subscription Required)

Outline

Information

Sign In to Your Journals Account

Filter

Filter

Article Lookup

Enter a citation