Tom Van Flandern (1940-2009) was an Ohio-born astronomer and physicist. He attended Xavier University and Yale University before beginning his career at the US Naval Observatory. Van Flandern's research focused on aspects outside of the mainstream, as later published in Dark Matter, Missing Planets and New Comets- Paradoxes Resolved, Origins Illuminated.
The overview of orbital dynamics is fascinating, detailing characteristics of orbits--many of which are non-intuitive. In particular the notion of 'spheres of influence' was very informative, serving as a foundation for discussions contained in alter chapters. Whether or not one agrees with Van Flandern's theories, this chapter provides an education all its own. -The Mason-Dixon Astronomer Tom Van Flandern is both an insider and an outsider. A professional astronomer for twenty-five years, he is well versed in the customs of mainstream science. On the other hand, after a long review of the assumptions underlying a large portion of received truth in astronomy and cosmology, he has come to a radical conclusion: much currently accepted theory is wrong. -Astronomy Books Club The overview of orbital dynamics is fascinating, detailing characteristics of orbits--many of which are non-intuitive. In particular the notion of 'spheres of influence' was very informative, serving as a foundation for discussions contained in alter chapters. Whether or not one agrees with Van Flandern's theories, this chapter provides an education all its own. - The Mason-Dixon Astronomer Tom Van Flandern is both an insider and an outsider. A professional astronomer for twenty-five years, he is well versed in the customs of mainstream science. On the other hand, after a long review of the assumptions underlying a large portion of received truth in astronomy and cosmology, he has come to a radical conclusion: much currently accepted theory is wrong. - Astronomy Books Club