According to our current understanding of physics, a gravitational field cannot exist independently of matter or energy. Gravitational fields are a result of the presence of mass or energy in the universe, as described by Einstein's theory of general relativity.
In general relativity, the presence of matter or energy curves the fabric of spacetime, creating what we perceive as a gravitational field. The curvature of spacetime determines how objects move in its vicinity, following the paths dictated by the geometry of the curved spacetime.
Massive objects like planets, stars, or galaxies create gravitational fields due to their mass and energy content. The more massive an object, the stronger its gravitational field.
However, it's important to note that even in the absence of visible matter, energy can still contribute to the curvature of spacetime and generate gravitational effects. For example, in the case of black holes, the gravitational field is created by the extreme curvature of spacetime caused by the concentration of mass and energy.
In summary, a gravitational field as described by general relativity requires the presence of matter or energy to exist. Without matter or energy, there would be no source of gravity, and therefore, no gravitational field.