Noncommutative Gravity

Abstract

We consider simple extensions of noncommutativity from flat to curved spacetime. One possibility is to have a generalization of the Moyal product with a covariantly constant noncommutative tensor $θ^{μν}$. In this case the spacetime symmetry is restricted to volume preserving diffeomorphisms which also preserve $θ^{μν}$. Another possibility is an extension of the Kontsevich product to curved spacetime. In both cases the noncommutative product is nonassociative. We find the the order $θ^2$ noncommutative correction to the Newtonian potential in the case of a covariantly constant $θ^{μν}$. It is still of the form $1/r$ plus an angle dependent piece. The coupling to matter gives rise to a propagator which is $θ$ dependent.

11 pages, more references added