The Moon, Europa

The Moon, Europa

Wednesday, December 29, 2010

New Orleans Comic Con

I am excited about Wizard World's first Comic Con in New Orleans Louisiana! I have a lot going on at my day job that month in preparation for Super Bowl XLV, but I didn't want to miss it so I will be making a quick, mostly sleepless, trip down there. So unless I am able to lay off work an extra day...


I will be at New Orleans Comic Con on Saturday January 29th only.


Tuesday, December 21, 2010

Monday, December 20, 2010

Lunar Eclipse Tonight

Tonight and early tomorrow morning, you Western hemisphere folks (which includes me) can see a lunar eclipse.  At about 12:30 a.m., the big event happens but we won't be able to see anything (provided the sky is clear) until after 1:00 a.m.  There will be a smudge on the upper-left part of the moon.  Here's a full article about it.  And here's a link to NASA's lunar chart (but they've been v., v. busy today so be patient) or here's the pic of the site in case it's too busy.



I hope you are up that late because the next time you'd be able to see it is in 2014.

Here's a news article about it.  And a picture from 2003 is included.

And a wiki page.

UPDATE:  Here's a video of what you missed.  

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Wicked cool science news

From time-to-time, I see science news that just has to be shared.  A lot of the time, it doesn't necessarily have to do with Jupiter or even this solar system.  But I am always happy to promote (through linkspam) the exploration of space as a whole in the hopes that it will make that much more plausible my own theories of and hopes for space exploration.

First, Voyager I, on the road for more than 30 years and still doing business.  Going where, literally, no human has ever gone before.

Second, every year this guy does a "best of" space pictures.  This years list is a wicked cool (and pardon the pun) out-of-this-world show.  You don't want to miss it.

Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Just missed it ...

As many of you know, I wrote a book called "Europa" and the story is based entirely on Jupiter's moon Europa.  NASA is sending a probe next year that should reach Jupiter/Europa roughly 10 years after that.

But believe it or not, other people, besides those at NASA, keep up with the goings-on in outer-space and actually keep tabs on Europa (the moon, not my book).  Apparently, on December 3rd and with a small telescope, we could have seen Europa (the moon, not my book) round the east corner of the planet Jupiter.  I missed it.  There's not much I could have done about it anyway since, and this might surprise you, I don't have a telescope.  It would have been nice if I could honestly tell you that it would have looked like this:


But most likely it was a slight shadow or blur just on the east horizon.  Someday we'll get pictures which are closer ... and dare I say more accurate? 

If you want more information about this story (and the whole timeline) visit this website.

Thursday, December 2, 2010

Selfless Promotion

My wife sometimes reviews shows and movies for a blog and she was able to do a short synposis/review of Europa.  (She loves the book, of course.)  And in the interest of selfless promotion, and if you're primarily interested in getting a short synopsis of Europa, please visit the blog post here.  And in the interest of share and share alike, if you're a movie buff like me, go ahead and visit this site on a regular basis.  They post between 3 and 8 reviews of a variety of different media per week.  Thanks for letting me share and let me know what you think!

Sunday, November 28, 2010

Writer's Panel

I spoke at a writer's panel in October but it took awhile to get the video... It's been edited slightly (for time).

The Science of Science Fiction

Wednesday, November 17, 2010

A review of the con ... the Austin Comic Con, that is

This review in pictures in about 3 days overdue but it's been a busy week.  First let me say that my wife did an official review of the Austin Comic Con and you can see that review here. (Also, Crazy4ComicCon blog is a good resource for all things con, etc.)  Second, I'm going to stick with the pictures on this one.  In a day or two, I'm going to do my link-up blog entry to all the people that I met (fellow sellers) at the Austin Comic Con.  And, in addition to all that, you can view a short video that I put together here.

Anime characters?  (If you know which ones, let me know)
And a Jedi. 

Two-Face


Me.  And my table.  And my books.

There are more pics on the review that my wife did. Didn't want to duplicate too much.  Plus, you can see more on the video.  Thanks for stopping by!

Saturday, November 13, 2010

Austin Comic Con

We are here at the Austin Comic Con all weekend!  And so far it's been the best of the cons I've been to.  It is well-organized and busy.  There are a ton of cool people here and I've enjoyed meeting some of them.  If you're in the area, please stop by!  I'm selling copies of my book Europa, some t-shirts and some of my designs.

If you're reading this because you've bought a book or picked up a bookmark with my website on it, thanks for your interest!  I appreciate your comments so please leave one for me.  Especially if it's good feedback.

Monday, November 8, 2010

T-shirts are here!

I finally sat down this weekend and put together a few more t-shirt designs and set up a store at: http://www.zazzle.ca/jasanderlin
I will add a few obscure and amusing designs, most not related to Europa, as soon as I finish the graphics.

Thursday, November 4, 2010

Social Media

I went AWOL from Facebook for awhile because I was trying to maintain JUST the [author] page since it's difficult to do both.  I've again created a profile that I will NOT maintain but my author page is back up and active.  If you want to "like" me, you can find me at "J.A. Sanderlin."  It will be the place I post most of the pictures.

Also, I do maintain a Twitter account:  @authorjas if you want to follow me.  It's mostly cool links that I've found but an occasional frustrated <140 character rant about writing and the like.  Also, if you know of any really creative and clever Tweeters, please let me know.

And as always, you can find me here at least once a week posting about ... stuff.

Thanks for your interest!

Monday, November 1, 2010

10 years living 300 km above the earth ...

Happy Birthday ISS!

I think this feat is significant and sad at the same time.  Significant because NASA, in cooperation with the science and technology of other countries, including Russia, has learned, and will continue to learn, a great deal about living in zero gravity, among other probably more amazing break-throughs.  And I can imagine that there are many, many more discoveries to be made in the International Space Station (ISS) that will take decades to both find and see into fruition.  However, I'm not a little sad about how we seem to have stalled at a relatively short distance away from Earth.  Perhaps it's the overall lack of cooperation and thus funding.  Perhaps it's the lack of vision of the popular vote (no offense).  Perhaps it's that we're happy to have gone this far and are fine with this achievement.  And while I'm not disputing that this achievement IS significant, I want to see us reach higher than this and start measuring in thousands of kilometers instead of hundreds.

Thursday, October 21, 2010

If you want people to visit your blog/website ...

my wife (who is a big fan of lolcats) said I need more cats, or pictures of cats. While I do not subscribe and will never have a blog or website devoted to cats, amusing or otherwise, I do actually own a cat.  So in the spirit of self-promotion, here is a picture of our 100% kitty-mutt, Navi, on my desk:


Monday, October 18, 2010

Zero G Coffee

Not quite as good as using a nice mug, but it's drinking coffee in space!

http://www.space.com/common/media/video/player.php?videoRef=SP_090313_ZeroG_Coffee

Thanks to all who showed up at my book signing Saturday. I hope you enjoy the story. I'm looking forward to finishing book two as soon as possible.

J.A.S.

Tuesday, October 12, 2010

New pics of Saturn

     I know I constantly post pics of Europa (for obvious reasons) and Jupiter but I just couldn't pass up the beautiful colors of Saturn this time around.  The colors represent different wavelengths (auroras) that are in and around Saturn that we would otherwise be unable to see.  Regardless of the "reality" of the colors, the photos (which are over 3 years old actually) are very interesting.  Saturn aurora'
     While we're on the subject of Saturn I thought I would also post an article I ran across on NASA's JPL website this summer. I found it while researching new locations for Black Chronicles: Book Two after I decided to abandon Neptune as the story's main location. I was very close to using Saturn's Titan and the new 'propeller moons' in the rings as my setting. I still love the potential of both locations, but I opted for something more remote...here is the link to the article: Saturn's Propeller Moons

Wednesday, October 6, 2010

First Time Speaking on a Writer's Panel...

I will be speaking at the next meeting of 'Mansfield Writes!' on Friday October 29th 7:00pm at the Mansfield Public Library:


104 S Wisteria St
Mansfield, TX 76063 
Phone: (817) 473-4391
*Their website* 


All are invited to attend this event. Although public speaking is not one of my strengths; I have been required to deal with it of late and consider this a welcome opportunity to work on one of my weaknesses. I will be answering questions and signing books afterward. 

Saturday, October 2, 2010

Book Signing at Border's Bookstore in Arlington, TX

Date: October 16, 2010
Time: 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Address: 4000 Arlington Highlands Blvd.
Arlington, TX 76018

Phone: 817/557-4831

You are invited! Please come by and ask questions, I always enjoy talking about the technology in Europa as well as what makes the moon such a unique place. I would greatly appreciate your support in any form. Let me know if you have any questions by posting a comment or you can call Border's at the phone number above. I look forward to seeing you there!
Reminder: There is a free sample of my book on Google. The link on the side column. 

Monday, September 27, 2010

New Image of Jupiter's Spot

Wow.  You have to check this picture out.  The quality is beyond anything I have seen up to this point.  The fact that it is actually made of pictures that are more than 30 years old doesn't stop it from being amazing.  Check out this link and let me know what you think.

Thursday, September 23, 2010

Europa Cut Material

I have been meaning to release a scene originally cut from Europa for some time. I finally forced myself into it by promising a couple of fans at Comic Con I would within the month.
This side story is about two of Mr. Tyler's team leaders; Eric and Quinn. These two characters are briefly mentioned in Europa. In the original manuscript the duo are individually given the task of rooting out a couple of their fellow rebels turned informants for the mercenaries. The story was originally the start of Chapter 14 on page 265. Below is the link to the PDF file that contains the story:


Eric and Quinn Find the Moles

This week in the news: Jupiter

It's literally so close, you can actually see it with a pair of binoculars this week.  Very cool.  Last night, right before sunset might have been the best time to view it but it's pretty close all week (closer than it's been in over 45 years).  For those night-sky enthusiasts out there, what are you reading this blog for?  Go look at Jupiter!

http://www.miamiherald.com/2010/09/22/1837517/super-harvest-moon-light-show.html

Wednesday, September 15, 2010

I'm afraid of people too ...

Provided Isaac Asimov, and his 3 laws, are in place, I think I would definitely be more afraid of people than robots.  AI is just gaining a foothold and has a long way to go before it becomes scary by anyone's definition.  Be that as it may, I don't think humans will ever have the ability of creating consciousness.  AI - yes; consciousnes - heck no. 

Take a look at this interesting letter from Ray Bradbury and his take on the same subject.

Friday, September 10, 2010

Nook Compatible

Several people have asked me about whether my book was available on the Barnes and Noble Nook. I thought it was not so I asked my marketing guy, Terry Cordingley, if he could make it available and he said it already was! Even though it's not listed on the Barnes and Noble website there is a Nook compatible version on the publisher's website. I've posted the link below and will make note of it on my official website soon: 
Europa for Nook 
(It's at the bottom of the page)

Wednesday, September 1, 2010

Comic Book Writers, Authors, Artists and Rock Bands

I met some great people at Comic Con, as always, who were helpful about locating new events and of course fun to talk with.
Here are some of their websites:
A Galaxy Called Dallas
Literati Press
Artist: Robert James Luedke
Artist: David Weaver
Codex Publishing
The Music of: Hostile
Thrash lyrics are not my favorite, but I do like heavy metal guitar. If these guys stick with it they should be a big success. Their more traditional metal songs were my favorites:
'Taken Away' has a great 'epic hard rock' quality.
'Home Don't Know' is a nice grungy slow bit.
'Nahum-Zakk Martinez:)' drags just a bit in the middle (I thought I should critique at least one). That being said, it is a great instrumental piece reminiscent of Joe Satriani's harder stuff.
Thanks for the CD David!!!

Tuesday, August 31, 2010

Dallas ComicCon Review

Thanks to all of you who bought a book this past weekend.  I sincerely appreciate the support and I hope you thoroughly enjoy the book.  I made some great contacts but I will save that for my next post.  And now, what you've all been waiting for ... my favorite photo opps from the Dallas ComicCon, including some shameless plugs for my book/website.

Me.  :-)  And the new table design.

The Vader.

Who else?  But I really need one of these costumes. 

R2D2 and Me.

Thanks for letting me indulge and I hope you enjoyed the pictures.  My next event will be in Mansfield, Texas in October.  More details to follow.

Wednesday, August 25, 2010

Book Two Update

Work on book Two is back on track and I am happy with the progress so far. I have changed the location, although it's still in our solar system, and some of the perspective regarding the timeline. It is seeming to quell the previous concerns I had regarding the storyline.
Just a sidebar while I'm here:
I have been thinking a lot about books Three and Four lately too and how the ending of book Two will dictate the order of their appearance. It is only an issue because they will take place during roughly the same time period. A difficult conundrum I know, but I refuse (at least for the time being) to abandon either work.

J.S.

Sunday, August 22, 2010

Dallas Comic Con

I will be signing copies of Europa at Dallas Comic Con this Saturday and Sunday, August 28th and 29th. I am looking forward to seeing new faces and costumes as well as the folks from Comic Book Craze and the guys from the DFW SciFi Club.

J.A.S.

Dallas Comic Con

Comic Book Craze

DFW SciFi Club

Chewbacca is human too...

Last weekend my wife and I were in Orlando Florida visiting friends. It was not until Saturday that I realized it was Star Wars Celebration weekend. I would have liked to visit the convention but did not have the time between our tightly knit plans. That Monday, while waiting for our outbound flight, my wife pointed out an unusually tall elderly man walking toward the group of gates where we were waiting for out flight. She asked me how tall he was and I told her he was at least seven feet and likely a little taller. After that I involuntarily, and quite unconsciously, stared at the man for ten or fifteen seconds as he walked by. He walked with a strangely familiar gait, he had long shaggy gray hair and his walking cane looked like it was made out of blue glass and was fitted with a unique pommel that appeared to be machined aluminum. The man walked past and my wife nudged me and told me to stop staring. As soon as she snapped me out of my haze it occurred to me why the man looked familiar. It was Peter Mayhew; the actor who played Chewbacca in the original Star Wars trilogy.
Before I continue, let me clarify something: I have never been much of a celebrity hound. I have seen a few, met a few and even engaged a few in conversation. The one thing I have learned is that they are regular people just like you and I. They merely happen to be in a profession that puts them in the spotlight.
None the less, for the first time in my life I felt a bit of that child-like giddiness at seeing one of the most beloved Star Wars characters from my formative years. So, in an uncharacteristic feat of social boldness I thought I would go ask for a picture with someone my inner ten year old once considered a hero. I held my camera low in my hand and kindly asked Mr. Mayhew if I could get a picture. Before I was finished asking he said, “No” and began shaking his head. He followed the end of my question with another, “No”.
I turned and walked away fully realizing that this had been the most probable outcome of my gamble. I sat down and smiled at my wife and told her he refused and followed with the typical, “well that’s the way it goes sometimes” and “it was worth a shot” and all of that. But as I said all those things I realized I was slightly miffed at getting rejected and even more so; my feelings were hurt. I guess that wide eyed ten year old in the back of my brain that was such a Star Wars fanatic felt a bit kicked to the curb. I thought, I wasn’t asking for much! And I was correct.
However, I thought about it for a few minutes and asked myself what I might do in his place. Mr. Mayhew had just come from a weekend that was one long continuous public appearance. I have only a, comparatively, small amount of experience with this to date but have already experienced how emotionally draining it is being 100% “on” for hours on end. While it is a lot of fun to interact with new people I for one, being an introvert, know how much energy it takes. I may not have been asking for much, but I was still asking him to give a total stranger something while offering nothing in return. At what point does a person have the right to say, “Not more photos, no more autographs please?” Any time they want. We do not deserve a picture or scribble from someone merely because we are a fan or like their work. They are not imbued with some special energy, with the obvious exception of the few narcissistic types, from fan adoration that entitles us to their attention. I must admit, and I’m sure many others can as well, that after carefully examining my motivation for getting said picture I learned something new. My motivation was not unselfish. It was not to complement Mr. Mayhew but to obtain a trophy for my own benefit. Something to say, “Look at me! I had my picture taken with so and so!”
I for one prefer to remain a faceless author that passes by unnoticed wherever I go and do not fault anyone for wanting their privacy. So I forgive Mr. Mayhew for hurting my feelings and I offer my sincere apology for treating him like a means to an end rather than a person deserving of consideration as such. In one additional act of social boldness:
I ask Mr. Mayhew to read my book. I think you will like it. And if we are ever again afforded the opportunity to meet perhaps it will not only be civil, the previous lack thereof being entirely my fault, but a pleasant colloquial exchange of words. 


J.A.S.

Tuesday, August 17, 2010

R2! Is that you??

I don't think it will come as a big surprise that I am a huge Star Wars fan ... that being said, there is much about that culture that I wouldn't mind having around today.  R2D2 is one of them and we are ONE GIANT LEAP closer.  Check out this blog posting by Kuriositas for more information.  Or you can get it straight from the horse's mouth here. Or you can stick around and look at the pictures of R2 on this blog posting. 

Just kidding! 
It's really this one:

 Wow.
And ... wow.

And I really want one of these mission patches.






Sunday, August 15, 2010

Ceres

In chapter one of Europa I mention the dwarf planet Ceres. There are many dwarf planets in our solar system the closest to Earth being Ceres which orbits between Mars and Jupiter.

For more information on Ceres follow the link below:
Ceres

Thursday, August 12, 2010

Back on Track

I really tried to avoid a rewrite of Book Two, but that is what I am working on at the moment. As I indicated in a previous post the title has changed but the general story-line and characters will remain. In other words I will not have to start from scratch but it is still a major setback from a time standpoint.

Tuesday, August 10, 2010

Journey to Jupiter

I know I've talked about the science before on this blog and I fully intend on beating this horse until we get more information back from NASA's probe, in about 15 years or so.  That being said, I think it's highly important to understand not only the science behind how we're sending a probe, but also why we're sending a probe and what we expect to find "out there."

Exclusive of the need of space exploration for additional human habitats, I think continued debate over exploring the "final frontier" is vital to improve our intellect.  I also think its necessary to have the conversations about space so as to keep the issue alive.  Based on what little NASA has done in the last 25+ years for manned space exploration, if we do not keep the discussion alive the possibilities of future exploration will die as well.  When so much is dependent on dollars and media attention, if the wheel doesn't squeak no one will see a use for it being there at all. Keep squeaking everyone and we'll get to Mars and beyond.

For your reading pleasure:  http://channel.nationalgeographic.com/series/naked-science/3842/Photos#tab-Photos/0

Saturday, August 7, 2010

OCD Ninja

We posted an interesting video on YouTube ... It has a ninja! ... If that is not a good enough reason to watch, well, there just isn't one...

Interesting Video

Wednesday, August 4, 2010

Tron: Legacy

Tron was one of the best science fiction films of the 1980's, not surpassing Star Wars Episodes V and VI of course, and the arcade game was one of the best waste of quarters I can remember from my childhood. Although I would have loved to see more of Tron sooner I am glad they waited for digital technology to make the necessary leaps before reworking the franchise. It may be difficult for the new film to live up to the legendary status of the classic original, but I am anxiously looking forward to "Tron: Legacy" and wanted to post a link to one of the many wonderful trailers.

Tron: Legacy Movie Trailer

Tuesday, August 3, 2010

Book Signing - Dallas Comic Con

Date:  August 28-29, 2010;
          Saturday 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.;
          Sunday 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Where:  Richardson Civic Center; 411 West Arapaho Road, Richardson, Texas


This will be my first Comic Con so I hope that my book will find a good outlet even though most people will be looking for some version of animation.  At this point in the planning process, I intend to be at the Comic Con for both days.  If that changes, and when I get more information about the Dallas Comic Con, I will let you know via blog.  The Dallas Comic Con website is here.

Thanks for your support and I look forward to seeing you there!

Saturday, July 31, 2010

Book Signing at Hasting's in Waxahachie, TX

I announced this earlier but tonight is my book signing at Hasting's.  Hasting's sells books, music, movies, and rents movies and games.  Come one, come all tonight from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.  I would love to see you there!


Hasting's in Waxahachie
791 N Highway 77
Waxahachie, TX 75165-1879
(972) 923-1143



And because I fully expect you to not have any clue where this store is, here's a link to the map : Map to Hasting's

Monday, July 26, 2010

Europa Facts

Here's to you folks who just can't get enough Europa facts

http://solarsystem.nasa.gov/planets/profile.cfm?Object=Jup_Europa

http://www.planetary.org/explore/topics/jupiter/europa.html

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Europa_(moon)

http://www.brighthub.com/science/space/articles/9828.aspx

I would highly recommend doing your own search if you need more information but these informational sites are pretty exhaustive.  Let me know if you find more Europa sites and I will post them here.

Thursday, July 15, 2010

Neptune

See previous post...
Well, for the few of you who knew its name, I am likely going to abandon the 'Neptune' project. I encountered some serious problems with exploration viability that I am unable to reasonably overcome. I may be able to salvage it by changing the methodology, but it is not looking good. I intend on keeping the same story premise and characters, but the planetary venue will have to be different. I do not look forward to a rewrite of 140+ pages. However, I have had a lingering doubt in the back of my mind since I started Neptune and I am hoping this will alleviate my worries. I am in full research mode at this point and will let you all know when I am back on track...Although, as before, I will not let the new name of book two be generally known until it is completed. 

J.A. Sanderlin

Wednesday, July 14, 2010

Science Research

I've encountered a pause in writing to research a pretty big issue for the next book.  I thought I had the details hammered out, but when I went back to check some small detail I was struck by a potential problem that would change the dynamic of the entire story.  It reminded me of the amount of research I did for the first book (hours and hours and hours) and how many questions I had to answer for myself, for the book, and to make the science actually plausible even 350 years in the future.  We are so far behind where we thought we would be only 50 years ago (where is my flying car?) that I didn't want to fall into the same trap I thought so many of our contemporaries did not too terribly long ago.  It seemed that giving technology 350 years to develop was enough time for it to catch up with our expectations.  So, since the 2nd book follows the first by about 20 years, I can't get too far ahead of the science in that one either.  I could make up stuff and take large leaps in logic but, so far, I want to keep my leaps very small.  I want to make sure that whatever science I present is largely in the realm of achievable.  There are plausible formulas and plans now but we're just waiting for the technology to make it a possible build?  Whatever the case, I want my flying car or rocket pack and I still don't have them.  Unfortunately we can no longer rely on NASA to make decent decisions about the future of manned exploration. And even if NASA ever gets to Mars (or for that matter to the Moon again), they probably won't do anything but take core samples. Maybe future endeavors will be privatized and speed up the process.

Tuesday, July 6, 2010

T-shirts

I'm designing some Europa t-shirts. The links and how you can order them will be forthcoming.  So far, this is my favorite t-shirt ... but I'm on the lookout for more ideas.

My current favorite t-shirt

More to follow ...

Wednesday, June 30, 2010

Jupiter Takes One For The Team!

One of the many reasons I'm glad that I live on Earth and not Europa (yet), is evidenced by this video.  It's a few weeks old but you can see that Jupiter (and other gas giants in our solar system) is a necessary part of Earth's life support system.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X3YucvICPus

Tuesday, June 22, 2010

Dallas Comic Con

J.A. Sanderlin will be signing copies of Europa at Dallas Comic Con Saturday August 28.
Dallas Comic Con will be held at:



  1.     RICHARDSON CIVIC CENTER
      411 W ARAPAHO RD
      RICHARDSON, TX

Monday, June 21, 2010

Thank you Comic Book Craze!

A BIG "Thank you" especially to Chris and Matt who are the owners of Comic Book Craze!  Great food, great company, and great contacts!

To those that bought books, a BIG "Thank You" and please let me know what you thought.  I look forward to hanging out with you again.  (A shout-out from Comic Book Craze http://www.scififx.com/forums/showthread.php?t=15901)

For those of you in the Dallas area, go by and visit Comic Book Craze at Garland Road and Beltline.  Their website is http://www.comicbookcraze.com/ .  New comics every Wednesday and a great selection of everything (including my book) in the store.

Thanks again!

Thursday, June 17, 2010

NASA (again)

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/science/space/article7149543.ece

I don't care where you are on the spectrum of government spending v. scientific research.  This is sad, sad news. Effectively, NASA has crippled research into our next best living space option for the next few decades putting us even more behind collectively as living beings and as a country, if there is even a space race still going on.

Friday, June 11, 2010

Comic Book Craze on June 19th

I will be at the DFW Sci Fi Club on Saturday, June 19th from 6:00 p.m. until ... ??  I will just be chatting about Europa and hopefully selling a few books.  If you're around, come by and see me!


Comic Book Craze
1456 Belt Line Rd #121
Garland, TX 75044 

Wednesday, June 9, 2010

Wikipedia Rules ...

Yes it does, but there are a lot more rules to posting something than I thought.  (There are shepherds who like to say, "Nein!" and knights who say, "Nee!"). Which is good for quality control and bad for self-promotion.  All that being said, Wikipedia is a great resource and I may still be in there somewhere ...

Check out the following link for more information on Jupiter's moons

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jupiter%27s_moons_in_fiction

Tuesday, June 1, 2010

Hastings book signing:

I will will be signing copies of Europa at Hastings on Saturday July 31 from 4pm-6pm. However, I will stay later if it is busy. 


Hastings:

791 N Highway 77
Waxahachie, TX 75165-1879
(972) 923-1143


Thursday, May 27, 2010

Are you smarter than me?

I would not apply for any of these positions. They look like they are for multiple PhDers ... and science guys (not unlike Bill Nye) ...

NASA HQ Business Opportunities

Monday, May 17, 2010

The Good Guys

The new Fox TV series "The Good Guys" (http://www.fox.com/goodguys/) schedule appears to have settled on Monday evenings. So far I have been an extra in three episodes. The irregular schedule of my job has allowed me the opportunity to be on the show a few times. The pay isn't great but I keep going back because it's a fun experience.

I am kneeling front left.

Sunday, May 16, 2010

Navigating Europa

Wow ... http://www.cc.gatech.edu/~pesti/europa/

You can click on the map and see a 360 degree view of Europa.  It's a black and white picture but quite detailed.  Take a look and let me know what you think.

Wednesday, May 12, 2010

Future Planets Blog

This blog has been active since at least 2008 but I just found it.  Future Planets Blog

I am happy to say that the blog is about space exploration and is both frequent and intelligent in its blog posts.  It would be a good blog to follow, as I do, if you're interested in the science of space exploration and the discussions related to it. 

I would highly recommend at least checking it out. It's informative and objective in its presentation of sometimes complicated issues and material (we are dealing with science exploration here).

Monday, May 10, 2010

Europa's Latest Review


J.A.,

We met at the Sci-Fi Expo in Richardson, Tx a few weekends ago. My name is William and I’m the one who mentioned you should get your book on the Barnes & Noble Nook, in addition to the Kindle.

Thank you  for autographing my copy of “Europa.” I finished the book in two sittings and thoroughly enjoyed the plot, characters, and technology as much as your writing style. You have definitely found a calling and I look forward to your next book.

Regards,
William


Thanks for the great review William.
Your suggestion was a good one, I forwarded it to my marketing guy and he is working on the Nook (Official Nook Website) angle. 

J.A.S.

Thursday, May 6, 2010

Monday, May 3, 2010

Old news? I don't think so ...

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/12/091215141510.htm

The above news article from December of last year relates a theory which has been bounced around the scientific community for over 10 years and is largely the reason that I wrote "Europa."  Check it out if you have the chance as the theories which define the habitable zone could be re-defined and/or updated to include moons like Europa and Enceladus (of Saturn).  Of course, those theories and the definition of "habitable" in general largely depend on the available technology, both now and in the future.

Saturday, May 1, 2010

Life on Mars?

http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/news/2951855/Nasa-Evidence-of-life-on-mars.html

In the not too distant past, NASA caught a rock slide on Mars via satellite imaging (kudos to the scientist that caught that one).  Not being opposed to finding life on other planets, least of all Mars or Venus, I am highly interested in any theories which point to that fact.

What's even more interesting to me is the complete lack of these types of science stories in the US press.  The last few stories I've caught regarding major discoveries or planned missions have been in the UK press.  Something to think about ...

Thursday, April 29, 2010

beamantafan.com

Several months ago my sister suggested I get a "fun" web address to route to my main site. My wife and her gave me a short list of ideas including "ruamantafan.com" among others. I settled on "beamantafan.com" to put on t-shirts and promotional items and began working on some designs. I hope to have some new bookmarks, t-shirts etc. printed in time for Dallas ComicCon and will certainly have them for Austin ComicCon 2010 in November. I will eventually post a link to some of the gear we've come up with in case you miss the chance to get it at an event. I think anyone reading "Europa" will grow to love "Manta" (the name of the submarine and AI placed in the submarine) and that is why I think everyone should beamantafan.

Monday, April 26, 2010

Dallas SciFi Expo Recap

It was a slow start to the day ... and the whole day was pretty slow too.  But we had fun, met some pretty cool people and sold a few books.  I'm going to share some of the pictures that my wife took below so that you can partake in all the fun.

Maybe my favorite costume of the day.  This couple went so far as to make "Buy More" name tags.
For those of you who don't know, they are dressing like the characters from the t.v. series "Chuck" (still don't know?  check out the website:  http://www.nbc.com/chuck/)




This is Adam Baldwin (from "Chuck").  Didn't get to see him up close because his autograph line was sooooo long all day.  He seemed to be gracious with the people getting his autograph.  Check out the website for much better pictures.   http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000284/

Also, he is NOT a Baldwin brother but I'm sure he's gotten that association thousands of times.





Daniel Logan .... and lots and lots of personality.  For those of you who do not recognize this guy, he was the kid who played Boba Fett in Star Wars Episode One.  He's voicing a character in the animated series, Star Wars Clone Wars.  For more information on him:  http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0517535/ 




Deep Roy!  He was very gracious to my wife by letting her re-take a picture of him.  Seems to be a real classy actor.  Couldn't find an official fan website but check this one out for more information:  http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0746989/

Thanks for coming out and visiting me!  I look forward to the next convention in June in Houston ...    

Tuesday, April 20, 2010

SciFi Expo in Richardson, Texas

Date:  April 24th & 25th
Time:  Saturday, 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
           Sunday,  12:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Address:  Richardson Civic Center, 411 W. Arapaho Rd. in Richardson, Texas

For more information, visit their website here.

I will be there Saturday only from 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.  If you're in the area, please come by and see me!  I appreciate all your support.

Saturday, April 17, 2010

A big THANKS to the Hill Country Book Festival



A big thanks to the staff and volunteers who put on the Hill Country Book Festival.  The event was well-organized and everyone was very friendly ... and I also sold a few books too!  A special thanks to the Capps family, Hannah and Mark.  Happy reading!

Tuesday, April 13, 2010

Hill Country Book Festival, Saturday, April 17th

This coming Saturday, April 17th, I will be in Georgetown at the Hill Country Book Festival signing and selling books.  If you're in the area, come on by!  I would love to meet you.

For more information on the festival:  Hill Country Book Festival

For a video showcase of the authors (including me):  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eiLgg0mle5s

Stay tuned for more information on the Richardson SciFi Expo on April 24th!!

Friday, April 2, 2010

SciFi Expo - Richardson TX

I will be signing books at the Dallas Sci-Fi Expo in Richardson, Texas on April 24th! I am looking forward to meeting new people and, hopefully, getting a chance to look around.
Here is their website:
Dallas Sci-Fi Expo

Tuesday, March 30, 2010

The reviews are in ... sort of

To all my faithful and loyal readers,

There are a lot of ways you can help me.  Buy books, to begin with.  But also, after you have read the book, would you mind reviewing it too?  Be honest and truthful but it would be great if you could take the time to review it on sites like Amazon.com and Borders.com.  Also, places like http://www.reviewscout.co.uk/1615660712 which would be international, would also help get the book "out there" as well.

I sincerely appreciate your help in advance.

Tuesday, March 23, 2010

New Pictures of Mars ...

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-1259813/Mars-Ice-walls-Red-Planet.html

New pictures of the Mojave Crater on Mars.  This is a 37 mile-wide crater which is 1.6 miles in depth.  Huge.  But it's not the biggest, nor the best known crater.  What's interesting about the Mojave Crater is the ice.

Saturday, March 13, 2010

Borders Book Signing

Many thanks to my friends and fans who were at the Borders book signing event in Arlington this Saturday. The staff was great and generous with the coffee. Thank you: Alex, Pat, Leo, Michael, Andrea, Rob, Amy, Shay, Beckie, Jade, Tammy, Arwin and everyone else I had the opportunity to sign a book for and talk with about writing, science and everything else in between. 
I had a great time and am already looking forward to the Dallas Sci-Fi Expo on April 24th.

Friday, March 12, 2010

One of the 7 Wonders of the Universe?

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/science/space/7346795/The-seven-wonders-of-the-solar-system.html


"Wherever there is water, there is life..."


I am so excited to see that the non-scientific community is showing great interest in this most amazing of natural phenomenon.  It's possible that in our lifetime, we could see the actual, physical, quantifiable data that the Europa 2020 mission shows us through photographs.  This is the beginning of the beginning and finally, we can get excited about what NASA is doing again.

Monday, March 8, 2010

Typos, Mistakes and Inadvertent Omissions

Most publishers rely on self-editing and so you may find some typos, mistakes and inadvertent omissions in the book.  I will be keeping and updating a list of those on this blog.  Please feel free to add to the list through comments.  Many of these have already been submitted to the publisher for correction on the next printing but I will be keeping the list current anyway.

Page 10, line 14 should be: "... solved problems and ran all of ..."
Page 77, line 2 should be:  "We want to tell them..."
Page 91, line 10 should be: "He and one of his men and lured me...
Page 102, line 14 should be: "I need to find ..."
Page 106, line 14, should be: "It was whom he had expected,"
Page 147, line 10 should be: "I don't care how much Daniels is paying him..."
Page 162, line 21 should be: "Katherine would lose her him..."
Page 162, line 30 should have a paragraph indentation.
Page 164, line 26 should be: "...to it that you reach to your ship..."
Page 238, line 31 should be: "...KCatherine said..."
Page 286, line 8 should be: "I think I understand."
Page 321, line 20 should be: "Send one man out to meet me."
Page 335, line 24 should be: "How long will that take?”
Page 349, line 1 should be: “he could see the...”

An update on the Europa 2020 mission from BBC News

The link below relates a Q&A with BBC News and NASA scientist Dr Robert Pappalardo.  This is really good information about the expected outcomes and the purpose of this mission.  Like me, NASA agrees that Europa is a great place to start to look for possible environments which could support life.  I encourage you to visit the link below:


http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/8537992.stm

Tuesday, February 23, 2010

Book Signing at Border's Bookstore in Arlington, TX

Date: March 13, 2010
Time: 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Address: 4000 Arlington Highlands Blvd.
Arlington, TX 76018

Phone: 817/557-4831

All are invited! Please come by and ask questions, order books, and meet me in person. I would greatly appreciate your support in any form. Let me know if you have any questions by posting a comment or you can call Border's at the phone number above. I look forward to seeing you there!

Tuesday, February 16, 2010

Book Signing at Angel Fire Library

I was so pleased with the staff and volunteers at the Shutter Library of Angel Fire.  I had a great time and I got to speak with some wonderfully interesting people.  Thanks to everyone who stopped by and bought books!  Hopefully, I will be back to New Mexico this summer ... Stay tuned!

Thursday, January 28, 2010

Europa on Kindle

I love the concept of ebooks, but I'm not sure if I will ever jump the paper ship ... perhaps I'm a bibliophile and need the tactile feel of pages.  However, I may only be a bit biased because I have yet to try an ebook...

Europa via Kindle

And just for fun and because it is one of the coolest new gadgets ...

IPad by Apple

Hopefully, it won't be long before you can get Europa on Apple/ITunes as well.

Friday, January 22, 2010

Mission to Jupiter

NASA goes to Jupiter

NASA has planned a mission to Jupiter leaving in 2011 and expected to arrive in about 5 years.  Hopefully they will gather more information about this planet and its surrounding moons (which number more than 60).

Studying Europa is relevant and potentially holds the key to human expansion in this solar system.

Tuesday, January 19, 2010

Book Signing at Shuter Library: Angel Fire, New Mexico

My next book signing will be on February 13 at the Shuter Library of Angel Fire, NM.
Their staff has been extremely friendly and easy to work with! Below is their facebook link:
Shuter Library Facebook page

Saturday, January 9, 2010

Listed on Amazon Japan!

...I wonder how it will translate...

http://www.amazon.co.jp/Black-Chronicles-Europa-J-Sanderlin/dp/1615660712/ref=sr_1_1/377-5155067-0798533?ie=UTF8&s=english-books&qid=1263072222&sr=1-1