THE ZERO DARK ENERGY PRINCIPLE

The accelerated expansion of the universe is commonly attributed to an unknown component termed dark energy. Although observational evidence for increasing intergalactic distances is well established, the physical origin, mechanism, and locality of dark energy remain unresolved. This preprint introduces the Zero Dark Energy Principle, which asserts that dark energy does not exist as an independent physical entity. Instead, the observed cosmic expansion arises from galactic spin momentum reduction, leading to hydrogen matter dilution in galactic outer layers, effective galaxy size reduction (boundary contraction), and local energy imbalance (ΔE) in low-density intergalactic regions. The framework proposes that as galactic spin momentum weakens over cosmological timescales, outer-layer hydrogen gas becomes dynamically unstable and merges into intergalactic space. This redistribution of matter causes galaxies to undergo boundary contraction, producing the apparent increase in separation between neighboring galaxies without invoking a repulsive cosmic force. In addition, the work offers a cautious reinterpretation of cosmological dimming observations, suggesting that reduced hydrogen-mediated energy scattering in low-density galactic environments may contribute to the observed faintness of distant sources. A classical rotational analogy (fan example) is included to illustrate how loss of spin momentum naturally leads to surrounding medium dilution without requiring new or exotic energy components. The Zero Dark Energy Principle provides a unified, process-based explanation for cosmic expansion that preserves all major observational results while eliminating the need for an unknown dark energy component. This work forms a core chapter of the SAN Grand Unified Theory, which seeks to explain physical phenomena through a single root cause: energy imbalance (ΔE). This preprint is shared to establish priority, invite open scientific discussion, and support subsequent peer-reviewed journal submission.