Homogeneous Projective Coordinates for the Bondi–Metzner–Sachs Group

Abstract

This paper studies the Bondi–Metzner–Sachs group in homogeneous projective coordinates because it is then possible to write all transformations of such a group in a manifestly linear way. The 2-sphere metric, the Bondi–Metzner–Sachs metric, asymptotic Killing vectors, generators of supertranslations as well as boosts and rotations of Minkowski spacetime are all re-expressed in homogeneous projective coordinates. Lastly, the integral curves of vector fields which generate supertranslations are evaluated in detail. This work paves the way for more advanced applications of the geometry of asymptotically flat spacetime in projective coordinates by virtue of the tools provided from complex analysis in several variables and projective geometry.