Dark-Matter-First Kinematics: Toward a Paradigm Shift in Cosmology

1. Introduction

Modern cosmology is driven by the unresolved mysteries of dark matter (DM) and dark energy. While conventional models treat DM as a passive gravitational component, the hypothesis presented here promotes DM to the role of an active substrate, one that not only interacts gravitationally but also provides the kinematic framework through which light, matter, and cosmic structures evolve. This article elaborates on the conceptual foundations, theoretical implications, and testable predictions of this framework, with the aim of stimulating dialogue among the scientific community.

2. Theoretical Foundations

2.1 Dark Matter as a Kinematic Medium

We conceptualize DM as a continuous field permeating all of space, exhibiting flow-like properties. This medium dictates the motion of baryonic matter and photons. Unlike the static notion of DM halos, the model emphasizes DM currents—dynamic, anisotropic flows that influence cosmic phenomena directly.

2.2 Light as a Passenger of Dark Matter

Photons are reinterpreted as excitations riding upon DM streams. Their effective velocity is contingent on alignment with local DM flows. If the photon trajectory aligns with the DM vector field, its speed effectively increases; in opposition, it decreases. This redefinition challenges the invariance of the speed of light, suggesting a deeper substratum that underpins electromagnetic propagation.

2.3 Dual-Universe Hypothesis

The framework incorporates a two-domain cosmology: an inner, compressed universe surrounded by a larger, diffuse outer universe. Black holes and white holes serve as interfacial gateways between these domains, facilitating matter-energy exchange and potentially explaining observed anomalies in cosmic structure.

3. Phenomenology and Cosmic Terrains

The DM substrate is not homogeneous. Instead, it resembles a cosmic landscape of valleys, ridges, and plateaus—"cosmic terrains" that generate anisotropies in motion and structure formation. Regions of enhanced density function as gravitational basins, while low-density corridors allow for accelerated expansion. These terrains help explain asymmetric galactic formations, uneven star distributions, and anisotropies in the cosmic microwave background.

4. Black Holes, White Holes, and Substrate Punctures

When stars or entire galaxies collapse, they may puncture the DM substrate, producing black holes that channel matter into the outer universe. Conversely, white holes represent inflows from the outer universe into our own. These exchanges maintain a dynamic equilibrium between universes. The energy required for puncturing is hypothesized to originate from galaxy-scale cataclysms, such as the merger of two massive galaxies.

5. Mathematical Sketch

We define DM flow by a velocity field \mathbf{v}_{DM}(x,t) and density distribution \rho_{DM}. The effective refractive index experienced by photons is given by:

n_{eff}(\hat{k}) = 1 + f(\rho_{DM}, \mathbf{v}_{DM} \cdot \hat{k}; \kappa)

where \hat{k} is the photon propagation vector and \kappa is a phenomenological coupling constant. This equation formalizes the dependency of light propagation on DM orientation and density.

6. Predictions and Observational Strategies

1. Directional anomalies in photon travel: Fast radio bursts (FRBs) and gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) may show direction-dependent arrival-time deviations correlating with gravitational lensing DM maps.
2. Merger asymmetries: Post-merger galaxies could exhibit anisotropic stellar kinematics linked to disturbed DM flows.
3. Superluminal-like signals: Secondary perturbations may outpace photon fronts, observed as apparent violations of special relativity unless reinterpreted through DM dynamics.

7. Implications for Cosmology

If validated, this hypothesis reshapes fundamental physics. The constancy of light speed would be relativized, DM would become the primary driver of cosmic dynamics, and black/white holes would be recognized as essential conduits between universes. The expansion of the cosmos would be recast as a two-phase process: DM-driven flow followed by baryonic matter response.

8. Conclusion

This scientific article outlines a paradigm where DM is the first mover, the carrier of light, and the architect of expansion. Though speculative, it opens avenues for empirical falsification through FRB timing, galaxy kinematic surveys, and cosmological simulations. The objective is not to replace standard cosmology but to expand its interpretive horizon by recognizing DM as an active agent rather than a passive backdrop.