Bending parameterization of geometrically finite hyperbolic manifolds

Abstract

We show that non-Fuchsian geometrically finite hyperbolic structures on a given hyperbolizable 3-manifold M are uniquely determined, up to isotopy, by their bending laminations. Consequently, the bending map from the space of non-Fuchsian geometrically finite structures on M, endowed with the strong topology, to the space of bending laminations, endowed with Lecuire's tubular topology, is a homeomorphism. This extends the convex co-compact case established with Schlenker. The proof combines hyperbolic Dehn filling, continuity and properness of the bending map (Lecuire) and real-analyticity of its fibres (Bonahon). We also establish a criterion for contractibility of the boundary fibres of a continuous extension of a homeomorphism, extending Finney's theorem to a boundary setting. This topological result may be of independent interest.