The ZIPPED Unification: A Finite-State Field Theory of Space-Time Hysteresis and Cyclic Relaxation

This manuscript introduces the ZIPPED (Zwanenburg Internal Pressure and Physical Elasticity Dynamics) framework, a predictive and falsifiable alternative to the standard $\Lambda$CDM cosmology. By modeling space-time as a visco-elastic medium with a scale-dependent relaxation time, ZIPPED eliminates the need for Dark Matter and Dark Energy. The theory defines four distinct regimes of spatial interaction—from sub-AU stiff behavior to cosmological-scale relaxation—and accurately reproduces observed offsets in high-velocity cluster mergers such as the Bullet Cluster and El Gordo without parameter tuning. The framework resolves the Hubble tension by linking local measurements to density-corrected relaxation times. A key innovation is the Delta Zwanenburg ($\Delta Z \approx 10^{-17}$), a critical threshold that triggers a non-singular, cyclic “Bounce” within a stationary universal volume, explaining the universe's persistent self-regulation and avoiding singularities. ZIPPED provides a unified view of the cosmos, from micro- to macro-scales, under a single principle of space-time hysteresis. Keywords / Hashtags:#ZIPPEDTheory #Cosmology #SpaceTimeHysteresis #DeltaZwanenburg #CyclicUniverse #BigBangAlternative #BulletCluster #ElGordo #HubbleTension #DarkMatterAlternative #DarkEnergyAlternative #ViscoElasticCosmos #MichelZwanenburg