From: utzoo!decvax!duke!harpo!ihps3!ihuxv!lew
Newsgroups: net.physics
Title: empty universe
Article-I.D.: ihuxv.217
Posted: Thu Aug 12 09:10:38 1982
Received: Sat Aug 14 06:25:50 1982


Of course, the isolated spinning mass in an otherwise empty universe
is unrealizable so the question whether it is conceivable is moot.
My understanding (such as it is) of General Relativity makes me think
that an empty universe is not a solution of Einstein's equation and
is therefore inconceivable within General Relativity.

I recall a quote from the Misner et al book, "Gravitation", which said:
"Current observations indicate that the universe is rotating very little,
if at all, this may be taken as experimental verification of Mach's
principle."

A recent "Science News" reports that radio polarimetry observations do
indicate a net rotation of the universe. The report also commented that
optical surveys have not shown this.

				Lew Mammel, Jr. - BTL Indian Hill