Alternative to Dark Matter

A Hybrid Framework for Galaxy Rotation without Dark Matter: Bimetric Gravity, Rotating Vacuum, and Field Synchronization

Author: Jim Redgewell

Abstract

Galaxy rotation curves deviate significantly from the predictions of general relativity (GR) when accounting only for visible matter. This discrepancy is typically addressed through the hypothesis of dark matter. In this short concept paper, I propose an alternative framework that combines three theoretical perspectives: (1) bimetric gravity, (2) a rotating anisotropic vacuum, and (3) Tugboat Theory, in which inertia and gravitation arise from delayed field synchronization across a phase-coherent vacuum.

1. Introduction

The mismatch between observed galaxy rotation curves and the predictions of Newtonian dynamics or GR has long been interpreted as evidence for dark matter. Yet decades of experimental searches have failed to reveal its direct nature. Alternative theories have explored modified gravity, emergent inertia, or additional field interactions. Here, I integrate three complementary ideas to suggest a deeper field-based mechanism.

2. Bimetric Gravity as a Foundation

Bimetric gravity posits the existence of two interacting spacetime metrics: a local physical metric \( g_{\mu u} \) and a second background metric \( f_{\mu u} \). In this framework, gravity arises from interactions not only within \( g_{\mu u} \) but also between \( g_{\mu u} \) and \( f_{\mu u} \), enabling modifications to gravitational dynamics at large scales. I propose interpreting \( f_{\mu u} \) as a representation of vacuum phase memory—a synchronizing field with global coherence.

3. Rotating Vacuum and Anisotropic Inertia

Inspired by Gödel’s solutions to Einstein’s field equations and later anisotropic cosmological models, I suggest that the vacuum is not strictly isotropic but may carry a subtle global rotation or directional phase structure. This rotation introduces an anisotropy in the synchronization field \( f_{\mu u} \), biasing inertial response in a direction-dependent manner.

4. Tugboat Theory: Inertia as Delayed Synchronization

Tugboat Theory proposes that mass and inertia arise from the time it takes for fields to synchronize their oscillations across space. In this view, motion through the vacuum requires realignment of internal oscillations with a globally coupled field. The delay in this process manifests as inertia. For a galaxy, the outer stars experience phase lag in synchronization, resulting in increased apparent velocity due to reduced inertial resistance.

5. Unified Interpretation of Galaxy Rotation Curves

The combined framework implies that outer stars are not moving too fast due to missing mass, but due to a modified inertial interaction mediated by the background synchronization field \( f_{\mu u} \), shaped by the rotation and phase structure of the vacuum. The galaxy itself may act as a local phase hub, with outer layers experiencing cumulative phase delay effects.

6. Predictions and Future Work

• Galaxies aligned differently with respect to the vacuum phase gradient may show different rotation profiles.
• Rotating and counter-rotating galaxies should exhibit asymmetric inertial responses.
• Flyby anomalies and lensing effects may correlate with field phase structure.
• Simulations using delayed synchronization fields can be compared directly with observed galaxy data.

7. Conclusion

By integrating bimetric gravity, a rotating anisotropic vacuum, and the field-delay-based Tugboat Theory, we arrive at a new conceptual model for explaining galaxy rotation without dark matter. This approach treats gravity and inertia as emergent from synchronization processes in a dynamic vacuum field, offering testable predictions and an avenue for reconciling quantum field theory with cosmological structure.

References

• Redgewell, J. (2025). Tugboat Theory Explained Simply.
• Redgewell, J. (2025). List of Articles.
• Hassan, S. F., & Rosen, R. A. (2012). Bimetric Gravity from Ghost-free Massive Gravity.
• Gödel, K. (1949). An Example of a New Type of Cosmological Solutions of Einstein's Field Equations of Gravitation.
• Milgrom, M. (1983). A Modification of the Newtonian Dynamics as a Possible Alternative to the Hidden Mass Hypothesis.

Keywords: bimetric gravity, galaxy rotation, inertia, vacuum synchronization, rotating universe, field delay, Tugboat Theory