Testing horndeski gravity with S2 star orbit

Journal Article · 14 December 2022 · Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1093/mnras/stac3648 · OSTI ID:1907199

Della Monica, R. ; de Martino, I. ; Vernieri, D.; de Laurentis, M.

ABSTRACT We have explored a completely new and alternative way to restrict the parameter space of Horndeski theory of gravity. Using its Newtonian limit, it is possible to test the theory at a regime where, given its complexity and the small magnitude of the expected effects, it is poorly probed. At Newtonian level, it gives rise to a generalized Yukawa-like Newtonian potential which we have tested using S2 star orbit data. Our model adds five parameters to the General Relativity model, and the analysis constrains two of them with unprecedented precision to these energy scales, while it only gives an exclusion region for the remaining parameters. We have shown the potential of weak-field tests to constrain Horndeski gravity opening, as a matter of fact, which is a new avenue that deserves to be further, and deeply, explored in the near future.

• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE Office of Nuclear Energy (NE), Nuclear Fuel Cycle and Supply Chain
• OSTI ID: 1907199
• Journal Information: Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society, Journal Name: Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society Journal Issue: 2 Vol. 519; ISSN 0035-8711
• Publisher: Oxford University PressCopyright Statement
• Country of Publication: United Kingdom
• Language: English