Large Gauge Symmetries of an Asymptotically de Sitter Horizon: An Extended First Law of Thermodynamics

Abstract

In this paper, we show that a universe with a dynamical cosmological constant approaching pure de Sitter at timelike infinity, enjoys an infinite dimensional symmetry group at its horizon. This group is larger than the usual $SO(4,1)$ of pure de Sitter. The charges associated with the asymptotic symmetry generators are non-integrable, and we demonstrate that they promote an extended version of the first law of thermodynamics. This contains four pairs of conjugate variables. The pair $(\Theta,\Lambda)$ corresponding to the change in the cosmological constant and its conjugate volume $\Theta$. The contribution of the surface tension of the horizon and its conjugate parameter surface area make a pair $(\sigma, A)$. The usual conjugate variables $ (T, S) $, $ (\Omega, J) $ and a term $ \partial_v \delta S $ corresponding to entropy production, are included. In addition, this extended first law describes the non-conservative behaviour of the asymptotic charges in non-equilibrium.