Objectives

challenge

Investigate possible signatures predicted by quantum gravity models in the observation of different cosmic messengers, by creating the conditions for a close collaboration between theorists and the various experimental communities involved in the detection of such cosmic messengers

Research Coordination objectives

1. To publish an updated state-of-the-art of the research on quantum gravity phenomenology, both by clarifying the possible scenarios and signatures coming from different theoretical frameworks, and by examining the reported constraints on such signals and the inherent limitations of existent analyses of experimental data for each type of cosmic messenger.
2. To clarify some apparent contradictions obtained in different analyses of experimental data produced by different messengers, by comparing methods of analysis and theoretical hypothesis used in those studies and by producing complementary analyses with new methods and/or data.
3. To systematically derive constraints for the different theoretical models from the experimental results coming from the different messengers, and to combine these constraints into a consistent picture (e.g., comparison of constraints in the presence of Lorentz invariance violation or deformed special relativity scenarios).
4. To study further and attempt to resolve open theoretical issues associated with the prediction of modified dispersion relations for material probes that might characterise some but not all models of quantum gravity.
5. To investigate the possible role of quantum gravity effects on: anomalies in the transparency of the Universe with respect to the propagation of high-energy gamma rays, the apparent ending of the cosmic neutrino spectrum, the production and propagation of ultra-high energy cosmic rays, and possible anomalies in gravitational wave propagation.
6. To develop new strategies and optimize existing ones for performing studies of quantum-gravity effects in the different cosmic messengers, both separately and in combination in the framework of a real multi-messenger astronomy.
7. To investigate how genuine effects due to quantum gravity could be disentangled from the intrinsic physical properties of the cosmic accelerators, and how the currently limited knowledge about their physical properties affect our ability to confirm or falsify quantum gravity models.
8. To convert the efforts of separated research groups in a common, well-defined, research strategy.

Capacity Building objectives

9. To stimulate the development of the field of quantum gravity phenomenology by promoting the interaction and knowledge exchange between the different communities participating to the COST Action; in particular, between experimental and theoretical groups.
10. To join the experimental communities working with different cosmic messengers (gamma rays, neutrinos, cosmic rays and gravitational waves) in order to promote combined analyses and a multi-messenger
    approach to the phenomenology of quantum gravity.
11. To foster the future development of this field by training a generation of young scientists in the necessary combined expertise on quantum gravity theories and models, and in experimental and theoretical
    approaches to astroparticle physics.
12. To strengthen the field of quantum gravity phenomenology by supporting and providing opportunities for recognition and visibility to Early Career Investigators, to researchers from COST Inclusiveness Target Countries and researchers from the underrepresented gender in the field, for instance by assigning leadership positions to them.
13. To disseminate the results to the general public, school pupils, university students, and in particular, young women that could pursue a scientific career, as well as to scientists from other disciplines, including physicists working in other fields.