The orbit space of the \(p\)-subgroup complex is contractible (Q1266442)

For a finite group \(G\) and a prime \(p\) dividing the order of \(G\) consider the simplicial complex whose simplices are the strictly ascending chains of \(p\)-subgroups \(\neq 1\) of \(G\). This complex was introduced by \textit{K. S. Brown} [Invent. Math. 29, 1-5 (1975; Zbl 0294.20048)] and has since become of interest in group cohomology and representation theory. In particular, the conjecture by \textit{D. Quillen} [Adv. Math. 28, 101-128 (1978; Zbl 0388.55007)] that the complex is contractible if and only if there is a non-trivial normal \(p\)-subgroup has fascinated group theorists. This conjecture in full generality remains open, though the work of \textit{M. Aschbacher} and \textit{S. D. Smith} [Ann. Math., II. Ser. 137, No. 3, 473-529 (1993; Zbl 0782.20039)] already covers most groups. In the paper under review the author solves another conjecture about this complex. The conjecture by \textit{P. Webb} [in: Representations of finite groups, Proc. Conf., Arcata/Calif. 1986, Pt. 1, Proc. Symp. Pure Math. 47, 349-365 (1987; Zbl 0649.20017)] says that the orbit space of the complex under the action of \(G\) is contractible. Webb himself verified that the orbit space is mod \(p\) acyclic, further supportive results were given by \textit{J. Thévenaz} [Arch. Math. 58, No. 2, 105-109 (1992; Zbl 0714.20012)]. Instead of Brown's original complex, Symonds studies a simplicial complex due to G. S. Robinson which is known to be \(G\)-equivariantly homotopy equivalent. Then he verifies that the fundamental group and all homology groups of the quotient of this complex under the group action vanish which by Whitehead's theorem implies Webb's conjecture.