Oscillatory approach to the singularity in vacuum spacetimes with T-2 isometry - art. no. 084006

We use qualitative arguments combined with numerical simulations to argue t hat, in the approach to the singularity in a vacuum solution of Einstein's equations with T-2 isometry, the evolution at a generic point in space is a n endless succession of Kasner epochs, punctuated by bounces in which eithe r a curvature term or a twist term becomes important in the evolution equat ions for a brief time. Both curvature bounces and twist bounces may be unde rstood within the context of local mixmaster dynamics although the latter h ave never been seen before in spatially inhomogeneous cosmological spacetim es.