A class of anisotropic (Finsler-) space-time geometries

Abstract

A particular Finsler-metric proposed in [1,2] and describing a geometry with a preferred null direction is characterized here as belonging to a subclass contained in a larger class of Finsler-metrics with one or more preferred directions (null, space- or timelike). The metrics are classified according to their group of isometries. These turn out to be isomorphic to subgroups of the Poincaré (Lorentz-) group complemented by the generator of a dilatation. The arising Finsler geometries may be used for the construction of relativistic theories testing the isotropy of space. It is shown that the Finsler space with the only preferred null direction is the anisotropic space closest to isotropic Minkowski-space of the full class discussed.