A Multipolar Universe?

This volume presents cutting-edge research on one of modern cosmology's most intriguing challenges: the observed dipolar anisotropies that appear to conflict with the standard CDM cosmological model. Through its contributed chapters, the book extensively examines multiple lines of evidence suggesting directional preferences in various cosmological observations, from cosmic expansion to galaxy cluster distributions. The work explores two fundamental possibilities: either these dipoles represent genuine spacetime anisotropy, challenging the cosmological principle itself, or they indicate a need to revise our interpretation of the cosmological data and the current models of large-scale structure formation. Both scenarios carry profound implications for our understanding of the universe's fundamental nature and evolution. This comprehensive collection bridges theoretical frameworks with observational evidence, offering fresh perspectives on cosmic isotropy, dark energy, and structure formation. The volume includes detailed analyses of various dipolar signals, their potential systematic origins, and theoretical frameworks that might accommodate these observations. The proceedings appeal to a broad audience of researchers working on both theoretical and observational cosmology, with experience and expertise levels ranging from that of senior researchers to those of postgraduate students. The same is also true for astrophysicists and physicists with expertise other than cosmology.