Version 1.6 ‒ Dark Matter Eliminated: Cosmic Energy Compression Explains Flat Galaxy Rotation Curves Without Invisible Mass

Abstract: The Cosmic Energy Compression Theory of Gravity proposes that gravity is not a pulling force nor spacetime curvature, but the inward compression of cosmic energy into cavities created by celestial bodies through their spin, mass, density and motion. This theory has successfully validated solar system bodies (Venus, Mercury, Phobos, the Moon) without invoking dark matter or dark energy. Here we apply the theory to the most famous evidence for dark matter: the flat rotation curves of spiral galaxies. In standard physics, outer stars orbit at speeds as high as inner stars, requiring a halo of invisible dark matter. In the cosmic energy compression theory, a spinning galaxy creates a large cavity in the cosmic energy background. Cosmic energy compresses into that cavity, forming a persistent compression field that extends far beyond the visible stars. This compression acts as additional gravity, keeping outer stars moving fast – analogous to the dust that trails behind a moving bus due to the low‑pressure wake. Crucially, the compression field does not decline as steeply as Newtonian gravity from visible mass. It remains significant at large radii, producing approximately flat rotation curves without any dark matter. The galaxy’s spin rate, mass distribution and the background cosmic energy flux determine the exact shape of the curve. Thus, the cosmic energy compression theory removes dark matter from galactic dynamics while remaining compatible with all solar system tests. © Asif Majeed, 2026. This work is made publicly available on Zenodo with DOI.10.5281/zenodo.19867262