α′-Corrections and de Sitter vacua - A mirage?

Abstract In this work we analyze the role of α ′ -corrections to type IIB orientifold compactifications in Kahler moduli stabilization and inflation. In particular, we propose a model independent scenario to achieve non-supersymmetric Minkowski and de Sitter vacua for geometric backgrounds with positive Euler-characteristic and generic number of Kahler moduli. The vacua are obtained by a tuning of the flux superpotential. Moreover, in the one-modulus case we argue for a mechanism to achieve model independent slow-roll.