Relativistic Causal Boundaries in Singular Space-times

Ecaterina Howard
(Macquarie University, Australia)


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Black holes harbor space-time singularities of infinite curvature, where classical physics, causality and future predictability break down. The singularity theorems state that a space-time which satisfies reasonable energy and causality conditions but also contains a trapped surface, must lead to a singularity, seen as causal geodesic incompleteness. Event horizons are key diagnostics for the presence and properties of black holes. The issue of the stability of the Cauchy horizon from future null infinity is discussed. In my talk I outline a few recent achievements and open questions in our understanding of the causal nature of singularities. I address several key problems concerning the future Cauchy development, break-down criteria and local/global sufficient conditions for the horizon stability. Finally, I discuss new points concerning the space-time causal boundaries and conformal boundary extensions for time oriented Lorentzian manifolds.