Twisted Teichmüller curves (Q2434416)

Let \(X_{D}\) denote the Hilbert modular surfaces. The simplest algebraic curve in \(X_{D}\) is the diagonal. The projection of a twisted diagonal to \(X_{D}\) yields a Kobayashi curve, i.e. an algebraic curve which is a geodesic for the Kobayashi metric on \(X_{D}.\) Teichmüller curves are algebraic curves in the moduli space of Riemann surfaces \(M_{g},\) which are geodesic for Kobayashi metric. Under the Torelli map the image of such a Teichmüller curve constructed by \textit{K. Calta} [J. Am. Math. Soc. 17, No.~4, 871--908 (2004; Zbl 1073.37032)] and \textit{C. T. McMullen} [Ann. Math. (2) 165, 397--456 (2007; Zbl 1131.14027)] lies in \(X_{D}\) and yields a Kobayashi curve. In these notes, a new class of algebraic curves on Hilbert modular surfaces is introduced; a possibility to construct even more Kobayashi curves on \(X_{D}.\) These curves are called twisted Teichmüller curve, because their construction is very reminiscent of Hirzebruch-Zagier cycles. These new objects are analyzed in detail in these notes and their main properties are described. In particular, the volume of twisted Teichmüller curve is calculated and their components are partially classified.