How predictions will be classified
The project will distinguish robust qualitative consequences from model-dependent numerical predictions. A useful prediction must specify the observable, the alternative expectation and the conditions under which the difference is measurable.
Candidate observational consequences
Near-surface structure
If a material configuration remains outside its limiting radius, sufficiently sensitive observations may constrain or reveal surface-related emission or reprocessing.
Extreme redshift
Signals from deep layers should be strongly redshifted and delayed, making direct surface detection difficult but not conceptually impossible.
Rotation
The distribution of rotational energy and the approach to the limiting compact state may modify shadow, orbit and near-surface signatures relative to standard parameterizations.
Mergers
The “sticking” picture motivates tests of the late inspiral, contact-like stage, ringdown and possible post-merger electromagnetic signatures.
Falsifiability program
The portal will formulate explicit tests rather than treating every compact-object observation as confirmation. Examples include:
- upper limits on any persistent surface luminosity;
- time-dependent emission from accreting material approaching a highly redshifted surface;
- precise measurements of photon-ring and shadow morphology;
- high-precision gravitational-wave tests of inspiral and ringdown;
- constraints on tidal response and near-horizon boundary conditions.
Next step
For each proposed effect we will add: the governing equations, a numerical estimate, the relevant instrument or survey, the expected uncertainty and a comparison with standard black-hole predictions.
