An Effective Description of Light as an Informational Excitation of the Vacuum: Phenomenological Evidence from ULBI and Deep-Space Signal Propagation

This preprint presents an effective phenomenological framework describing light propagation as an informational excitation of the vacuum, emphasizing persistent phase/time coherence beyond white-noise expectations. Using ULBI temporal series and deep-space (Voyager-type) tracking benchmarks, we introduce an effective vacuum vector field SμS_\muSμ coupled minimally to proper time to parameterize accumulated timing residuals without modifying the invariant speed ccc. Cross-comparison of Voyager 1 and Voyager 2 supports a propagation-linked interpretation after standard corrections. The framework provides falsifiable predictions for future precision metrology and deep-space tracking tests.