Higher spin theory in 3-dimensional flat space

Abstract

We present the first example of a non-trivial higher spin theory in 3-dimensional flat space. We propose flat-space boundary conditions and prove their consistency for this theory. We find that the asymptotic symmetry algebra is a (centrally extended) higher spin generalization of the Bondi- Metzner-Sachs algebra, which we describe in detail. We also address higher spin analogues of flat space cosmology solutions and possible generalizations.

5 pp, v2: added 2 Refs., a sentence in the intro and a note in the end; to appear in PRL