Group invariant solutions of the Ernst equation of general relativity theory

The local symmetry group of the Ernst Equation for stationary, axisymmetric, vacuum space-time manifolds is computed by application of the method of Olver. Several implicit solutions of the equation are found by use of this group. Each of these solutions is given in terms of a function defined as a solution of an ordinary differential equation. One of these equations is integrated by quadratures by use of its own local symmetry group, the result being three explicit solutions of the Ernst Equation. For one of these solutions the metric of the space-time manifold is constructed and studied. The solutions has a ring curvature singularity and it is asymptotically flat in the sense that the curvature invariants approach zero at spatial infinity. The timelike and null geodesics on the symmetry axis and in the plane of the ring singularity are described. The test particles following these geodesics are seen to be repelled by the ring, which suggests the interpretation of this solution as representing the exterior gravitational field of a rotating ring of matter with negative gravitational mass