We derive alpha to 3 parts per billion from discrete topological invariants. The bare coupling alpha₀=1/137 follows from 136 confined microstates plus 1 emission pathway. 1-loop and 2-loop vacuum polarisation yield alpha^-1~137. 035999077 via a discrete Dyson-Schwinger equation. The 4-point trace evaluates to -240, matching the E8 root vectors. v2. 0 (2026-06-12): an in-PDF dated status/erratum note has been added reflecting the June 2026 canon audit (DRIFT/ANCHOR ledger) ; see the paper's status note for the specific corrections, supersessions, or upgrades. 2026-06-20 legacy canon revision: This is a canon-reconciled legacy version. Bare alpha0 now derived differently; dressed alpha remains open The paper retains its historical derivation trail but carries a 2026-06-20 canon revision note identifying current status and superseded claims. 2026-06-21 canon refresh: This version incorporates the 2026-06-21 ANCHOR/DRIFT/PTMS canon refresh and rebuilt local PDF.
D. G. Elliman (Sun,) studied this question.