The Connection Matrix of the Open Chiral SCT Operator and Its Spectral Consequences

Paper 41 in the Geometry of the Critical Line programme. Constructs the full 2×2 connection matrix M(λ,m) mapping left-endpoint Frobenius data to right-endpoint data for the open chiral SCT operator. Proves the involution theorem M² = I from the δ → −δ reflection symmetry, derives tr(M) = 0 and det(M) = −1, proves the chiral symmetry M(−m, λ̄) = M̄(m, λ), and identifies the confined spectral condition as M₂₁ = 0. Numerical reconnaissance shows M₁₁ ≠ 0 and M₂₁ ≠ 0 on the real axis, with eigenspace transport overwhelmingly r₁-dominated (|ρ±| ≈ 1.47 × 10⁻³). The real axis is spectrally inert in the tested regime.