From Newton to Planck: A Flat-Space Conformal Theory Bridging General Relativity and Quantum Mechanics—A First-Principles Geometric Framework for Gravitation, Quantum Discreteness, Metric Effects, and Time Dilation

We introduce NUVO Theory, a novel conformal metric framework grounded in Newtonian mechanics and empirically validated gravitational effects. Rather than relying on the pseudo-Riemannian metric structure of General Relativity, NUVO adopts a velocity- and position-dependent scalar conformal factor, $\lambda(t, r, v)$, derived from the test particle’s relativistic kinetic and gravitational potential energies, with kinetic energy normalized to its rest energy and the gravitational poential normalized to the central mass's rest energy. This formulation leads to a modified yet intuitive metric structure capable of explaining key gravitational phenomena, including perihelion advance, gravitational redshift, and time dilation. Beyond gravitational dynamics, NUVO reproduces atomic binding energies, offers a first-principles derivation of Planck’s constant and the fine-structure constant, and provides a cosmological redshift mechanism without invoking expansion. This paper outlines the foundations of NUVO, its scalar field formulation, implications for astrophysics and quantum structure, and its correspondence and divergence from General Relativity and quantum theory. The theory is presented in a standalone form to invite cross-disciplinary engagement and empirical testing.