The Fourier binest algebra

Abstract

The Fourier binest algebra is defined as the intersection of the Volterra nest algebra on L2(ℝ) with its conjugate by the Fourier transform. Despite the absence of nonzero finite rank operators this algebra is equal to the closure in the weak operator topology of the Hilbert–Schmidt bianalytic pseudo-differential operators. The (non-distributive) invariant subspace lattice is determined as an augmentation of the Volterra and analytic nests (the Fourier binest) by a continuum of nests associated with the unimodular functions exp(−isx2/2) for s>0. This multinest is the reflexive closure of the Fourier binest and, as a topological space with the weak operator topology, it is shown to be homeomorphic to the unit disc. Using this identification the unitary automorphism group of the algebra is determined as the semi-direct product ℝ2×κℝ for the action κt(λ, μ) =(etλ, e−t μ).