QFT
In the literature: open
Background-independent definition of M-theory
In plain words
Each known exact definition of string theory assumes a fixed shape of spacetime at infinity. A definition that does not assume a background is missing.
Precise statement
Exact definitions of string and M-theory exist for asymptotically AdS spacetimes (dual CFTs) and for flat space in light-cone frame (BFSS matrix theory), each tied to asymptotic boundary conditions. Find a formulation whose Hilbert space and observables do not presuppose a background and which contains these as special sectors.
What would settle it
A formulation from which at least two known exact definitions with different asymptotics are derived as sectors.
Related problems
- More general than Does BFSS matrix theory recover eleven-dimensional Lorentz invariance
- More general than Nonperturbative content of closed superstring field theory
- More general than Do four expanding spacetime dimensions emerge in the IKKT model