Taub-NUT as gravitational dyon with torsion

Abstract

We show that the Levi-Civita connection for the Taub-NUT metric is singular on Misner strings and generates an Einstein tensor containing the squares of the delta function. This can be improved by introducing torsion, in which case the Einstein tensor may be interpreted as that of a cosmic string with negative variable tension. Komar flows in Misner strings are generated by torsion, which is therefore responsible for the asymptotic Komar charges. The Taub-NUT metric then appears as a soliton supported by two spin-fluid beams.