Examination of Evidence for a Preferred Axis in the Cosmic Radiation Anisotropy

We examine previous claims for a preferred axis at $(b,l)\approx (60,-100)$ in the cosmic radiation anisotropy, by generalizing the concept of multipole planarity to any shape preference. Contrary to earlier claims, we find that the amount of power concentrated in planar modes for $l=2,3$ is not inconsistent with isotropy and Gaussianity. The multipoles’ alignment, however, is indeed anomalous, and extends up to $l=5$ rejecting statistical isotropy with a probability in excess of 99.9%. There is also an uncanny correlation of azimuthal phases between $l=3$ and $l=5$. We are unable to blame these effects on foreground contamination or large-scale systematic errors. This reappraisal may be crucial in identifying the theoretical model behind the anomaly.