Testing Gravity Theories Using Stars

Understand

Modified theories of gravity have received a renewed interest due to their ability to account for the cosmic acceleration.

• In order to satisfy the solar system tests of gravity, these theories need to include a screening mechanism that hides the modifications on small scales.
• One popular and well-studied theory is chameleon gravity.
• Our own galaxy is necessarily screened, but less dense dwarf galaxies may be unscreened and their constituent stars can exhibit novel features.