Title:Astronomical Validation of the Z.I.P.P.E.D. Framework via Gravitational LensingAuthors:Michel ZwanenburgDescription / Abstract:This manuscript presents the Z.I.P.P.E.D. (Zwanenburg Inverse Proportionality Principle of Elastic Dynamics) framework as a mechanistic interpretation of gravitational lensing. Unlike traditional General Relativity, which attributes light deflection to spacetime curvature, Z.I.P.P.E.D. explains lensing through the mechanical tension at the \emph{standing edge} of the cosmic “zipper,” arising from the high-density (1.7%) mass regions transitioning into low-density (98.3%) cosmic vacuum.The work demonstrates that predicted deflection angles, Einstein rings, and Einstein crosses quantitatively match observations from high-resolution instruments, including the James Webb Space Telescope. The manuscript includes a fully defined deflection formula that incorporates the natural stiffness of free space, preventing mathematical runaway scenarios and providing a physically bounded model.This publication establishes the Z.I.P.P.E.D. framework as a scientifically verifiable, testable extension of gravitational lensing theory, bridging quantum tension mechanics and cosmological expansion while offering a direct, mechanical explanation for astronomical phenomena traditionally described geometrically.Keywords / Hashtags:#ZIPPED #ZwanenburgTheory #GravitationalLensing #StandingEdge #EinsteinRing #JWST #Cosmology #QuantumTension #MechanisticPhysics #AstronomicalValidation #GeneralRelativityExtension #Physics #Astrophysics #TheoreticalPhysics #CosmicFabricAll rights reserved to Michel Zwanenburg (January 2026). Any reuse or citation must credit the author and contact mbazwaantje@gmail.com for authorization. Observational data referenced are publicly available from the James Webb Space Telescope early release datasets