Omega Point

The mathematical physicist Frank J. Tipler created the term Omega Point to describe a hypothetical cosmological scenario in the far future of the Universe. According to the Omega Point Theory, as the Universe comes to an end in a Big Crunch, the computational capacity of the Universe is capable of increasing at a sufficient rate that its computation rate is accelerating exponentially faster than time runs out. In principle, a simulation run on this Universe-computer can thus continue forever in its own terms, even though the external Universe lasts only a finite time. This theory assumes that certain cosmological variables prove that the universe will eventually contract, and that there will be intelligent civilizations in existence at the apropriate time to exploit the computational capacity of such an environment.

Tipler identifies this asymptotic state of infinite information capacity with God. The implications of this theory for present day humans, is that this ultimate cosmic computer will essentially be able to resurrect everyone who has ever lived, by recreating all possible quantum brain states within the master simulation. This would be a Matrix-like simulated reality, except without the necessity for physical bodies in "reality". From the perspective of the inhabitant, the Omega Point represents an infinite duration afterlife, which could take any imaginable form due to its virtual nature. In this sense Tipler is attempting to scientifically validate heaven.

References:
 * Tipler, F. J. "Cosmological Limits on Computation", International Journal of Theoretical Physics, 25, 617-661 (1986)

-== External links ==-
 * http://www.math.tulane.edu/~tipler/summary.html