James KirbyI am a 67-year-old retiree who had a lot of time on his hands. Some six years ago I challenged myself to study the most difficult subject that came to mind. Little did I know then that it would lead to this little book. I live in the western slopes o the Rocky Mountains near a town called Golden, British Columbia, in a small village called Donald Station. I have always been curious about the natural world, and have spent a lot of time observing nature, and its denizens. It is my hope that this book will give the general public some idea that the universe and how it functions is not beyond their understanding and that with an understanding of the basics, it can open up a new topic of discussion among friends and colleagues, one that was once thought to be too complex, and best left to the professionals. I hope that you will enjoy reading this book, as much as I liked writing it, and remember knowledge is the keystone to self advancement. Read More Read Less