Beyond Peak Statistics: Searching for Topological Folds in the Space Between Galaxies Using Dome Template Matching in Weak Lensing Tomography
Year: 2026
Type: preprint
Abstract: DRAFT(!) Abstract Modern weak lensing surveys (Euclid, LSST, DES) are optimized to detect dark matter through "peak statistics" — identifying local maxima in the convergence map corresponding to dark matter halos around galaxies. This paradigm treats the space between galaxies as a smooth background. We propose a methodological shift: instead of searching for point-like mass concentrations, we search for the periodic geometry of the spacetime fabric in the space between galaxies. Using template matching with strong Bayesian priors, we propose fitting dome-shaped profiles (upward ridges and downward troughs) to the cosmic shear field at a characteristic scale of L ≈ 150 Mpc. This approach transforms dark matter detection from a search for discrete objects into a search for the continuous topological curvature of spacetime itself. We also address the critical degeneracy with Baryon Acoustic Oscillations (BAO) and propose a geometric criterion for distinguishing the two signals.
Author: Komissarov, Aleksandr
Language: English
Subfield: Astronomy and Astrophysics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7221325879
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