Ricci flat metrics with bidimensional null orbits and non-integrable orthogonal distribution

Abstract

We study Ricci flat 4-metrics of any signature under the assumption that they allow a Lie algebra of Killing fields with 2-dimensional orbits along which the metric degenerates and whose orthogonal distribution is not integrable. It turns out that locally there is a unique (up to a sign) metric which satisfies the conditions. This metric is of signature (++−−) and, moreover, homogeneous possessing a 6-dimensional symmetry algebra.