From: "Strong, Lee" <StrongL@MTMC.ARMY.MIL>
To: "WSFAList (E-mail)" <WSFAList@keithlynch.net>
Subject: [WSFA] Constructing Realsitic Solar Systems
Date: Mon, 16 Jun 2003 09:43:41 -0400
Reply-To: WSFA members <WSFAlist@keithlynch.net>

	Ladies and gentlemen:  I request some help in constructing a
realistic solar system for a fantasy novel universe.  I understand that
there are various formulas (1) for determining the planetary habitable zone
around stars of various luminousities and (2) for translating the distances
of planets from their primary star(s) into lengths of years.  I can fake
this up but would prefer to learn and apply the real world formulas used by
the better authors.  I request your assistance in locating useful and
accurate reference materials.
	My intention is to construct a system in which the planetary orbits
are tightly packed together in comparison with Sol System so that there are
many habitable worlds orbiting the same star, and so that the various
sentients can see continents, oceans and weather patterns on their
neighboring worlds with minimal artifical aids.
	Thank you, Lee