Bayesian model selection for dark energy using weak lensing forecasts

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Abstract

The next generation of weak lensing probes can place strong constraints on cosmological parameters by measuring the mass distribution and geometry of the low-redshift Universe. We show that a future all-sky tomographic cosmic shear survey with design properties similar to Euclid can provide the statistical accuracy required to distinguish between different dark energy models. Using a fiducial cosmological model which includes cold dark matter, baryons, massive neutrinos (hot dark matter), a running primordial spectral index and possible spatial curvature as well as dark energy perturbations, we calculate Fisher matrix forecasts for different dynamical dark energy models. Using a Bayesian evidence calculation, we show how well a future weak lensing survey could do in distinguishing between a cosmological constant and dynamical dark energy.

Author

Debono, Ivan

Journal

Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society

Paper Publication Date

January 2014

Paper Type

Astrostatistics