Asymptotically Shear-free and Twist-free Null Geodesic Congruences

Abstract

We show that, though they are rare, there are asymptotically flat space-times that possess null geodesic congruences that are both asymptotically shear- free and twist-free (surface forming). In particular, we display the class of space-times that possess this property and demonstrate how these congruences can be found. A special case within this class are the Robinson- Trautman space-times. In addition, we show that in each case the congruence is isolated in the sense that there are no other neighboring congruences with this dual property.