New Theoretical Model Links Spacetime Density to Quantum-Classical Mass Limit

A new theoretical framework, the Selection-Stitch Model (SSM), was formally introduced on February 9, 2026, proposing that the vacuum of space is a geometrically organized medium defined by a finite information density. Raghu Kulkarni, Chief Executive Officer of IDrive Inc. and an independent researcher, developed the model, which yields exact derived values for several fundamental physical constants. The complete exposition of the theory is publicly available across two papers on the Zenodo repository.

The SSM diverges from the traditional assumption of continuous spacetime by positing that the packing of quantum information adheres to a Face-Centered Cubic (FCC) lattice arrangement. Calculating the density of this lattice structure, the model derives the Geometric Vacuum Constant, quantified at approximately 0.77 times the established Planck Length. Kulkarni asserts this suggests the cosmos possesses a fundamental resolution limit inherently finer than what standard Planck length assumptions imply. The Planck length, derived from the speed of light, the gravitational constant, and the reduced Planck constant, typically marks the boundary around 10⁻³⁵ meters where quantum gravity effects become dominant and current theories break down.

The theory further introduces the "Geometric Resolution Limit" as a mechanism to address the persistent quantum measurement problem. It postulates that as an object's mass increases, its associated wavelength contracts until it falls below the vacuum's intrinsic "pixel size." This physical constraint compels the object to transition into a classical state, a critical threshold named the "Mass-Decoherence Limit." Kulkarni’s precise calculations establish this limit at approximately 28 micrograms.

This theoretical mass boundary shows a close convergence with the prediction derived from Roger Penrose's Gravitational Objective Reduction (OR) model, which suggests wave function collapse near the Planck Mass, estimated around 21.7 micrograms, based on the instability of spacetime curvature. Kulkarni emphasized this alignment, noting that his result stems from pure lattice geometry, while Penrose's calculation utilized General Relativity. This theoretical construct aligns with contemporary experimental investigations, such as a recent study in Nature detailing the use of levitated nanoparticles to probe quantum gravity effects.

The SSM is advanced as a candidate theory for Quantum Gravity, modeling spacetime as a discrete, chiral tensor network, similar to other emergent gravity theories viewing gravity as a statistical phenomenon from a discrete structure. The model aims to offer a unified framework where General Relativity and Quantum Mechanics emerge from a "stiff" geometric vacuum, potentially resolving cosmological tensions like the Hubble Tension without recourse to arbitrary constants or Dark Energy. The SSM suggests that universal expansion, often attributed to Dark Energy, could be the geometric stress of the vacuum lattice healing its internal voids. Furthermore, the structure mathematically precludes singularities because space possesses a minimum "pixel size," preventing infinite collapse.

The convergence between the 28-microgram limit from the SSM and Penrose's prediction, derived through distinct theoretical pathways, strongly suggests this mass cliff represents a fundamental physical boundary experimental physics is poised to encounter. The Quantum Gravity and Cosmology 2026 workshop, scheduled in Bologna from February 9 to February 13, 2026, is set to feature dedicated discussions on empirical methods for testing these quantum-to-classical transition points. Researchers are actively using quantum computing simulations to model mass-dependent decoherence, seeking the unique signature of gravity-induced collapse that could validate these theories.