Constraining the dark energy equation of state with cosmic voids

Abstract

Our universe is observed to be accelerating due to the dominant dark energy with negative pressure. The dark energy equation of state (w) holds a key to understanding the ultimate fate of the universe. The cosmic voids behave like bubbles in the universe so that its shapes must be quite sensitive to the background cosmology. Assuming a flat universe and using the priors on the matter density parameter (Ωm) and the dimensionless Hubble parameter (h), we demonstrate analytically that the ellipticity evolution of cosmic voids may be a sensitive probe of the dark energy equation of state. We also discuss the parameter degeneracy between w and Ωm. © 2009. The American Astronomical Society. All rights reserved.