Guest Article - Author W. Scott Harral

Scott Harral’s sci-fi and mystery book, Moon Luck, is a wonderful example of writing mystery into a hard science fiction setting; it sounds difficult to do, but it is possible.

Scott Harral’s sci-fi and mystery book, Moon Luck, is a masterclass in how mystery can be integrated into hard science fiction. The book is set in a lunar colony in the near future, where there are secrets afoot, and questions must be answered before everything ends.

While the two genres may seem, at first glance, difficult to actually mix together, there are simple ways to go about it.

But first—

What is Hard Science Fiction?

Hard science fiction is a subgenre of science fiction that is very concerned with scientific accuracy and logic. What this means is that while Star Wars and The Martian might be under the umbrella of science fiction, they are on very opposite ends of the spectrum.

Where in most science fiction, technologies, and scientific themes are tropes and tools used by the author, hard science fiction integrates scientific discoveries and realistic possibilities into its narrative. What this means, in essence, is that authors of hard science fiction are very diligent and exhaustive with their use of science. What they write about is something that is theoretically possible and not just used because the concept sounds cool and awesome (although it can be).

Impossible Puzzles

One reason why it is very difficult to integrate mystery into hard science fiction is that the genre does not lend itself well to the illogical or the fantastically creative, even though some aspects of the two seem to mesh very well together. On the one hand, hard science fiction relies heavily on actual scientific and technical principles, and on the other, mystery fiction is all about solving puzzles and uncovering secrets.

Yet, isn’t science all about uncovering the mysteries of the world?

Adding Mystery in Hard Science Fiction

Regardless, if you want to write something like Moon Luck by Scott Harral and integrate mystery into a hard science fiction setting, here are some steps you might consider taking:

Establish the rules of the universe and stick to them.

Because hard science fiction is very strict when it comes to the workings of its setting, you have to be very mindful about what can and what cannot happen—and NEVER violate any of them without reason.

How you define the laws of physics, the limitations of technology, and the important scientific principles you are focusing on can make or break your story. Having a handy set of rules allows you to develop a world that is equally believable as it is functional.

When incorporating mystery into your hard science fiction setting, ensuring your story follows these rules is vital. The secrets that inform the story should be based on science and technology, not magic or supernatural elements. Breaking the laws you set out means breaking your readers’ trust, and that is not a thing you want happening if you want to write a good mystery.

Base your mysteries and secrets in science.

If you want to properly incorporate mystery into your hard science fiction setting, you have to use science to create it. Be creative with your use of technology in a way that is plausible and, at the same time, critical to understanding the puzzles you have laid out for both your characters and your readers.

Using science in this way creates a more believable story and allows you to incorporate fundamental scientific principles and theories into your plot. This also has the added benefit of making your narrative more educational and engaging for readers who are interested in science.

Create Complex Characters

A good mystery novel is one populated with complex characters, each with hidden motives and secrets. Incorporating characters with depth into your hard science fiction slash mystery novel can add depth and intrigue to the narrative.

Keep the Reader Guessing

If you want to create a successful mystery, it is essential to keep the reader guessing. This means introducing multiple suspects and red herrings throughout the story. As the story progresses, readers should constantly re-evaluate their theories and suspicions.

And with a hard science fiction setting, these re-evaluations should be spurred and hastened by a deep understanding of the scientific principles involved.

Incorporating mystery into a hard science fiction setting can be challenging, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. By using science to create clues and suspects, creating complex characters, and keeping the reader guessing, you can make a story that is both educational and entertaining.

Photo by SevenStorm JUHASZIMRUS

What’s next for humans after their noteworthy accomplishment on the Moon? Is it possible for us to not only land on our feet on its surface but to build a civilization there?

A sustainable lunar future is far from reality, as it has always been a dream. Even so, it didn’t stop scientists worldwide from learning more about the Moon with utter fascination. We may have explored Mars numerous times in an attempt to find any evidence of life that grows on that red planet. Despite the slim chances, there are no long-term solutions, and the endeavor still needs to be improved.

On another note, that’s where author Scott Harral embarks on a literary journey that explores the possibility of humans occupying the Moon. Harral’s glimpse into the near future as we inhabit the Moon is evident in the book, as it makes us feel hopeful that there might still be another place for us somewhere.

A sustainable lunar future beyond this world

Even with the abundant knowledge of the Moon so far, countless things are yet to be seen—for example, the dark side of it. The Moon may have been responsible for illuminating our planet at night, but has anyone ever seen its version of nighttime? The side that is not facing the Earth?

If we were to desire a sustainable lunar future for the sake of prolonging humanity, there needs to be additional information gathered. It helps to assure us that we can live on the Moon if the Earth reaches past its prime.

Nowadays, lighter and cheaper models have been manufactured and launched to the Moon, emphasizing the need to prioritize lunar missions over the past decade. While there may not be enough space crafts that can carry all of us to the Moon in one go, the efforts towards a sustainable lunar future beyond this world are taking baby steps.

Setting sights on a return to the Moon and the drawbacks to it

The United States is one of the countries that made a tremendous win by setting foot on the Moon. However, with other pressing matters in society, the government is still determining whether to prioritize another lunar expedition again.

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) focuses on returning to the Moon in 2024. The Artemis Project has been in the works for a long time, although it is still being determined whether NASA can realistically meet its goals or remain a lofty dream.

What may be the hindrances that pulled a stop to this?

After the government lobbied for the project, Congress outright rejected it, exceptionally requesting an additional budget for construction and expedition plans. NASA wanted to make more rocket boosters and a space capsule that could easily take astronauts to the Moon. Eas is also in a race with time, as they are worried that the Artemis Project will be left in the dust if the government won’t bat an eye on it. They are concerned that a sustainable lunar future will never see the light of day.

Experts are also in a race with time, worried that the Artemis Project will be left in the dust if the government won’t bat an eye on it. They are concerned that a sustainable lunar future will never see the light of day.

What does a sustainable lunar future offer us?

Other than quenching an insatiable scientific curiosity, space exploration, in general, isn’t just a show of force or economic power to those who can afford to do it. This is a noble endeavor that benefits humanity in the long run.

With each mission, even little bits of information unearth more knowledge we need regarding space. After all, the concept of even a sustainable lunar future came through the history of Apollo missions in technology. Satellites were born, enabling us to experience peak technological advancements from the palm of our hands.

Robotic missions overshadowing human efforts?

Lunar missions rely on a human to be on board. The eagerness to explore enabled us to create robots to head onto the Moon in our stead. There were also speculations concerning the capability of robots to collect minerals that will be sent for further geological studies.

Japan proved them wrong by sending Hayabusa2. It landed successfully on an asteroid with a mission to gather minerals and bring them back to Earth. However, in defense of human capability, some experts argue that it needs direct human intervention to understand geology to discover possible life forms. It would take so much effort to encode robots into their tasks compared to a human with knowledge and expertise to uncover what lies beyond.

Final thoughts

Regardless of the valid points, we all have a unified goal: to create a sustainable lunar future for everyone. Our planet is deteriorating, and we can save it if a collective effort exists. However, it helps to have a plan B in case we have nowhere else to go.

If we want to use the Moon as a Launchpad for future scientific innovations and the betterment of humanity, we have to drive ourselves to make it happen. Otherwise, we will continuously fight a losing battle and forever wish for what could have been had we tried to realize a sustainable lunar future.

History’s abundant with the greatest heroes and figures that have set examples of greatness. But these leadership lessons may come from someone you might not expect – a villain.

Yes, you read it right. We will share valuable leadership lessons from a fictional villain from one of the biggest science fiction franchises in the world. He is a faceless overlord clad in a black cape and hiding behind a mechanical helmet. He is known for his eerie breathing and hissing quite a few times.

A vast Empire army leader, Darth Vader, has superior power, influence, and intellect to obliterate the Rebel Alliance. Saving the most iconic reveal in history (we all know it), Darth Vader was a multifaceted fictional character who is universally loved despite being evil personified in the Star Wars franchise.

This might also sound like an exaggeration, but Darth Vader might have pioneered character development, as he eventually turned against the Empire and saved his son. His legacy of being a well-rounded character earned him a lasting legacy that will be remembered for all generations.

Leadership takeaways from the most “evil” villain

Darth Vader’s influence didn’t grow out of nowhere. While he may not be an ideal example because of his strongman leadership style, it doesn’t mean we have nothing to learn from. Disregarding all his atrocities, here are some of the crucial leadership lessons from Darth Vader.

Be assertive.

No one is born a leader. They are made and molded into someone with the right amount of ambition and compassion. By moderately demanding the best from your team, excellent results are possible. The thing about Darth Vader is that he makes things clear to everyone. He doesn’t want to make changes when unnecessary to prevent the swaying of others’ minds around him.

Darth Vader has also mastered the art of negotiation. He craftily increases the rewards he wants as a show of dominance. He is an example of a leader who should send a clear message without mixed signals. By being clear about what you want, you can avoid further complications in reaching your target.

Pick a side that will benefit everyone.

Choosing your most trusted allies can be an impossible task. At the same time, it can be a recipe for complications. The book Moon Luck by Scott Harral is a story of astronauts living on the moon and doing their best to work as a team. However, they eventually developed animosity towards each other. After all, familiarity breeds contempt, and a rift can break apart even the closest of friends.

Keeping the right people that not only work well with you is crucial, but so is inspiring loyalty to them. It would be best to establish enough influence to make people stay by your side. In the case of Darth Vader, he helps maintain a solid rapport in the team so that they remain focused on the bigger things.

Authenticity is attractive.

The biggest cinematic reveal in history was in Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back. When Darth Vader admitted to being Luke’s father, it solidified the concept of truth eventually unfolding no matter the circumstances.

In the same way, a leader must always be truthful to their team and practice what they preach. There must be a good balance of authenticity and authority when leading people to where you want them to be. Be wise like a serpent yet innocent as a dove.

This also rings true with keeping promises.

Despite being the evilest person on the planet, his authentic attitude towards keeping his promises is well-known. He acknowledges that there’s something greater than himself while still upholding his militaristic beliefs. Darth Vader helps manage expectations by not overpromising and still delivering.

Recuperate when you can.

Even a villain like Darth Vader needs rest on occasion. He goes to his meditation chamber to relax without his armor on. Leaders still need to recover their energy from carrying significant responsibility. Only then will they continue to lead efficiently and in their best condition.

Take advantage of necessary resources.

Leaders can’t do everything alone. They might still move forward by doing so, but having another set of people to do the legwork will take you miles. It won’t hurt your pride to ask for help beyond your circle and use the proper leverage to get things done.

For example, when Darth Vader needed someone to find the Millennium Falcon, he could’ve searched himself or left it to a few Stormtroopers. Instead, he outsourced someone else and ultimately accomplished the task given. True leaders know they’re not always good at everything and will need someone to do things sometimes.

Photo by Nicolette Attree

Authors craft characters that readers either hate or love. However, with the constant need to create engaging and exciting plots, authors have created a new set of characters that are neither truly good nor evil, those morally grey ones.

When it comes to novels, the primary characters are sectioned into protagonists or antagonists. Authors typically craft their characters as either good or bad, adding depth and background to each so they move or influence the course of the story. However, readers won’t have to debate who they want to win or lose. Between these characters, it’s natural and typical for readers to root for the protagonist, someone characterized as an all-good and just figure fighting for a cause they believe is right.

Protagonists and antagonists are often clearly distinct in how they’re presented and, often, how they look. Some authors may want to confuse their readers and not put their true protagonists at the forefront of the story, telling the whole thing from their antagonist’s perspective. But overall, these characters can be determined based on their beliefs and choices.

But What Happens When the White Mixes With Black?

It’s the quintessential and expected dynamic, the protagonist will always stick to what’s right and best for the situation, and the antagonist will always oppose. There may be instances where the bad guys disguise themselves and have morally sound choices. But their real motives will be uncovered sooner or later, revealing the selfish reasons behind their actions.

It’s good vs. evil. Light vs. dark.

And these white or black personas are the fundamental characters in every story. However, authors aren’t sticking to monochromatic traits these days. Gone are the days when heroes and villains stick to stereotypes. Instead, the authors have mixed whites and blacks, creating interesting characters. These figures challenge morality and make readers question their beliefs, keeping them on their toes in amusement and alarm.

Today, people aren’t all that crazed about helpless and innocent princesses locked in towers. Instead, they might root for princesses who aren’t afraid of manipulating their captors or even shedding some self-defense blood for freedom.

The Shades of Morally Grey Characters

Readers are introduced to troubled characters in Scott Harral’s sci-fi and mystery book, who are too ambitious for their good and their teammates’ benefits. They’re more than willing and adamant about achieving their goals, so they aren’t afraid to put others in uncomfortable situations. However, they aren’t hurting others. Instead, they’re only too fixated on their goals and unapologetically aspiring, and they may fail to notice others’ feelings.

Does this make them the bad guy? When they aren’t hurting others, not necessarily. But their behavior doesn’t also make them a generally good person.

A morally grey character lives by their moral code, often deviating from social standards. While they may sometimes do questionable things, these characters are the most human. After all, people are rarely ever all good or all evil. They’re flawed. Instead, they will aim to do good deeds, which may or may not end positively. They may also fall into bad habits and be blinded by their goals and ambitions, leading to questionable and often harmful choices.

Writing These Characters

These figures, while morally ambiguous, still have purpose and reason behind their existence. They may tip the moral scale either way between good and evil. But they will still have goals they want to achieve. When crafting these morally grey characters, authors don’t write them carelessly. They will also need a well-written profile with a realistic portrayal of people’s needs and goals.

Here’s a guide when writing these characters:

Must Have a Reason

Like any character, morally grey characters must have a motive. They need a reason for their actions. While they may practice questionable beliefs, morally grey characters must still have their “why?” Readers don’t have to agree or side with these characters. But they must, at least, understand why they’ve chosen that path.

This is what makes readers question their morals, as well. By making them empathize with these characters, they will wonder if they agree with these questionable beliefs.

Must Have a Weakness

Another way to make readers empathize with morally grey characters is by giving them a weakness. A perfect character won’t resonate with the readers. Instead, authors need to deepen and explore these characters’ development by giving them a weakness that either drives or hinders them toward their goal. Weaknesses will make these characters more realistic and humane for readers to understand and connect.

Must Make Difficult Decisions

While they aren’t inherently good or bad, this doesn’t mean they can’t make decisions that may be for selfish reasons or set for the betterment of others. How morally grey characters make their choices will reveal much about their beliefs, presenting their ambiguity.

Additionally, characters achieve character development and reinforce the idea and existence of their goals through these difficult decisions. Hence, authors must incorporate these events into the story, allowing their characters to choose between what they believe is right or wrong.

Photo by SevenStorm JUHASZIMRUS

The Moon is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful celestial bodies. Its silver sheen reflecting the sun’s light is a welcome sight every night. And while the Moon’s beauty is appealing, many more things are fascinating about the Moon.

So, would you like to know more about and discover some interesting facts about the Moon? This blog offers some truly amusing facts for you to enjoy. And if you want to read a great sci-fi book set on the Moon, check out Moon Luck by Wayne Scott Harral (that’s me).

Now, let’s go ahead and take a look at the list we prepared below.

1. The Moon Used to Look Way Bigger

The Moon used to look larger because it was at least ten times closer to planet earth, with computer simulations estimating that the Moon could’ve been 12 – 19 times nearer. Nowadays, the Moon is 384,400 kilometers, and it’s still moving farther away.

2. There is Water on the Moon

Believe it or not, scientists have uncovered the presence of water on the Moon. It was India’s Chandrayaan-1 mission that found the water situated close to the poles. Although the water’s volume wasn’t much — there’s only a liter of water for one cubic meter of soil — it does increase the chances of establishing bases on the Moon’s surface.

3. Lunar Bases Could Become a Reality Soon

While it is true that our current technology still can’t let people inhabit the Moon, it is likely to establish a scientific basest there soon. Planetary scientists and astronomers believe that a base could offer many uses. Lunar bases are also tackled in my book, Moon Luck, and I take the time to explain what considerations need to be made.

4. The Moon was Made After a Big Explosive Collision

The Moon was made after an extensive and violent collision that brought with it a massive explosion. It’s said that all of this happened between the proto-Earth (an early-stage version of the Earth) and a celestial body called “Theia,” about the same size as Mars. This origin theory is named the “Giant Impact Hypothesis,” believed to have occurred 4.5 billion years ago. Wayne Scott Harral knows a lot about the Moon, enabling him to write a fantastic book set on the Moon itself.

5. A Lunar Eclipse was Able to Save Christopher Columbus

We’re incredibly fascinated by the Moon because even Christopher Columbus’s life was saved by it. Christopher Columbus was in a tough spot, but he was able to use the natural process of lunar eclipses to his advantage. On February 29, 1504, he successfully frightened native Arawak Indians by taking advantage of a lunar eclipse and the superstitious beliefs the natives held. He was able to threaten the natives and get food from them.

6. Moon Dust has a Similar Odor to Gunpowder

Dust floods every part of the Moon and even coated the Apollo astronaut’s suits. Harrison “Jack” Schmitt, one of the astronauts on the Apollo 17 mission, compared it to the smell of gunpowder. It also caused some form of “lunar hay fever,” with astronauts sneezing and congestion issues that last for days.

7. Tidal Bulges: How the Moon Causes Them

Among the most interesting facts about the Moon is that it causes tidal bulges here on Earth. The Moon’s gravitational strength isn’t strong enough to pull up water on a single side of our planet. On the other side, an area where its gravity’s almighty pull is weakened, the water bulges in the inverse direction. These water bulges are why high and low tides occur around the world.

8. Surface Temperatures Are On Both Extremes

Since the Moon has no protective atmosphere, the surface can reach excessively high or low temperatures. With tidally locked, the Moon doesn’t spin on its axis like Earth’s. Instead, one side is always covered in darkness while the other is constantly sunbathing. Temperatures can range from 123 ºC to -233 ºC.

Well, there you have it, everyone. Those were a couple of interesting facts about the Moon. I hope you enjoyed this read and that it intrigued you more about Moon Luck’s story, written by Wayne Scott Harral (that’s me, everybody). Visit my website to learn more about my book or read other blogs relating to the Moon and my book that you can find in there.

In Moon Luck by Scott Harral, he explores the initial stages of what lunar habitation might look like while still presenting a compelling sci-fi thriller.

Living on the moon has always been a cultural aspiration for the whole of humanity, with mentions of men on the moon and lunar rabbits dating back at least a thousand years. There have been plenty of modern stories about moon habitation, like Moon Luck by Harral and Artemis by Weir.

Who doesn’t want to live on the moon? Out there in space, looking at the great blackness of the universe around the planet Earth. And jumping really, really, really high because the gravity’s so much lower there as compared to here.

Doesn’t that just sound like a wonderful future?

Almost everyone from every corner of the world has thought of the idea–of what it would be like living on the surface of the moon. And the hold of the idea on humanity’s collective unconscious hasn’t waned, especially since the moon landings and especially now that NASA has announced its intentions to create a permanent moon base by 2030. Perhaps living on the moon won’t be so far-fetched soon.

What Needs to Be Answered for Successful Lunar Habitation?

But before you get to packing and googling for tickets, what are the issues with building a base on the moon?

Remember, the conditions on the moon are entirely different from living on Earth. There’s no arable land, no obvious source of water, no animals, no atmosphere, etc., just to name a few.

Here are the main issues with living on the moon:

What Powers Everything?

For any society to function, there needs to be power. When humans first established the earliest civilizations, power was limited only to pure labor, the energy of hard work, and domesticated animals. When civilization progressed, and technology grew more sophisticated, the rushing waters of rivers were used to power mills; then, it was steam to power the earliest engines. When oil and natural gas were discovered, they powered better engines and generated electricity. Now, there are machines that can harvest the power of the sun, the wind, the waves, and more. Without power, a civilization stagnates.

On the moon, there are few sources of power that do not include what the settlers already brought with them. The only consistent source of energy would be that which comes from the sun: solar power.

Perhaps the lack of an atmosphere will make it easier for settlers to capture solar energy, but there are still issues with storage and other minutiae. Although nothing concrete has been determined, just the discovery of a solution is highly beneficial for any future planned settlement on the moon.

Where is the Living Space?

Another important requirement for a successful civilization is the territory, the space where the people will live, work, etc. Although the moon has large tracts of unclaimed land, it is not the best, to say the least. Because of an absence of water and vegetation, most of the moon’s surface is covered in rock and dust, which made the Apollo 17 astronauts’ eyes water and throats sore after contact. The absence of an atmosphere also makes the moon quite vulnerable to meteorites and radiation.

If there is to be habitable space on the moon, it would mean relying on sealed housing that allows for protection against radiation and the recycling of breathable air.

The establishment of a moon base would require taking advantage of prefabricated structures and modular systems for quick and easy installation. This is without considering the difficulty in laying out plumbing and water systems (although there might be further achievements waiting in the future).

How to Grow Food?

The most important aspect of maintaining civilization is food. You might have power, and you might have land, but without food, all of that crumbles into nothing the minute everyone starves. From a specific reductionist point of view, the progress of civilization can be seen as a journey toward increased food productivity. Nations can only prosper with a growing population of workers, you see, and the only way to facilitate that growth is through adequate food production and distribution.

Remember the earlier point about the power needed for civilizations to function? Human beings need the power to function, too, and, as far as anyone can see, that power comes from eating food.

Luckily for any potential lunar base, there have been strides to establish methods of growing food in space and conditions similar to the surface of the moon.

Every year, there are discoveries and efforts in science and technology that make habitation on the surface of the moon ever closer to reality.

Photo by Lina Kivaka

Science fiction is fantastic, made plausible through the backdrop of science.

Sci-fi typically deals with themes such as futuristic science, contact with extraterrestrial beings, time travel, alternate universe, etc. Mysteries are usually solved scientifically or with scientific reasons. Familiar characters in a sci-fi novel include aliens, robots, a time traveler, a scientist, and so on.

Murder mysteries have so many moving pieces that have to fit together perfectly. There must be plausible clues, compelling suspects, and a satisfying but unexpected ending. Adding new technologies—like spaceships and time travel—and alien species who may have unusual abilities, science fiction murder mysteries take both genres to a new level.

Many readers like a mystery because life is mysterious, and story-telling exists to help us figure out how to live. Secrets help us figure out how to deal with the unending avalanche of unknowns in our lives (probably not directly, unless you deal with dead bodies a lot).

Some people say that mysteries are famous because people like puzzles. Well, I want a certain kind of mystery, but I’ve never been a puzzle person.

In science fiction especially, the “who has done it” can quickly become a “what has done it.”

Here is the list of the six science fiction murder mysteries everywhere, from the moon and cyberspace to outer space.

All Systems Red by Martha Wells. Murderbot wants to do is watch its favorite shows, keep its humans from killing themselves, and avoid uncomfortable social situations while surveying an unfamiliar planet. That last goal proves tricky because somebody else is out to destroy the survey team, and it’s up to the contracted robotic security guard, Murderbot, to stop them.

Philip Dick’s Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? This 1968 novel Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep pins on Rick Deckard. He is a bounty hunter tasked with killing a bunch of androids who have escaped to Earth. Despite the mission’s dangerousness, Deckard needs the bounty money to purchase a real-life animal, the status symbol, and replace his crappy electric sheep.

Leviathans Wake by James S.A. Corey. Humanity has colonized the solar system—the Moon, Mars, the Asteroid Belt, and beyond—however, the stars are still out of reach. Jim Holden is an officer on an ice miner. When he and his crew stumble upon The Scopuli, they find themselves possessing a secret they never wanted.

Kate Mascarenhas’ The Psychology of Time Travel. The world would know three of their names. Four women scientists made the first time travel machine, but when one of them has a nervous breakdown, she’s thrown off the team. Her contributions are lost, and history moves on. Ruby knows her grandmother, Barbara (or Granny Bee), was part of the team, but when Granny Bee receives a newspaper clipping about a murdered woman from the future, Ruby fears it’s her grandmother. She decides to figure out what will happen and how to stop it. The story is told from shifting perspectives, exploring how the possibility of meeting your old and future selves might impact your state of mind.

Richard Morgan’s Altered Carbon. It is hard to solve a murder mystery when humans can switch bodies. Like in a video game, some people can “reset” after being killed. Plot-wise, the book is different from the Netflix series based on it—despite its multi-episode length, the latter has less time for world-building.

Moon Luck by Wayne Scott Harral. Over the years, more active stations will be located permanently on the moon. Will humans be prepared when the time comes? Harral’s Sci-Fi and mystery book, Moon Luck, is a great read! It is the story of thirty astronauts living on the moon for extended periods. The author generated an engaging story through thoughtful character development, in-depth research, and a creative storyline. Something truly unique to this book is because of its details in advanced technologies and makes some exciting leaps into the future. This is a genre that people would hesitate to read at first glance because of nowhere to be found: settings of the moon, cyberspace to outer space; however, as they read further, it would tickle their interest as it is combined with mysteries that touch on solving a puzzle or a crime.

The link between a writer and traveling is essential. Going on a trip or exploring the world can do wonders for the person writing the words and their craft.

There are many advantages to being a writer. First off, writers take control of their time. Their hours are theirs; they can write away at any time of the day and with how many hours they want. They can work in the comfort of their homes, hide away in a library, or spend hours and hours in a coffee shop. The day, time, and place are theirs to control.

That’s why some writers would take time and effort to escape the city life’s hustle and bustle and find escape and haven out in the country, the mountains, or the sea. This freedom from the writing life provides that luxury of traveling and exploring.

Then again, there are writers whose writing jobs are more demanding, such as news reporters or technical writers. They’re forced to confine strictly to a schedule or a deadline because they’re tied to their clientele’s requirements.

But this type of pressure doesn’t prevent them from seeking a chance to escape into the world of traveling. This constraint only increases their urge to pack their bags and temporarily leave behind stress.

Payoffs of Traveling to a Writer

People say the so-called “writer’s block” motivates writers to seek a different place to write or relax. Besides good vocabulary skills, writers are often required to have a good imagination and a wide range of exposure or experience.

To these writers, traveling is one way to develop these character traits that would help them become better at their craft. Read on to find out other benefits writers seek when traveling.

Seek Inspiration for New Ideas

When everything becomes all too much, that’s when writers face a block – writer’s block. Writer’s block is a situation in which the writer cannot come up with anything to write about or does not know how to proceed with writing. This is a good enough reason for writers to travel.

Traveling provides opportunities for exposure to new sceneries, languages, and cultures, meeting new people, and even reconnecting with old acquaintances. A quick getaway can refresh the mind, yield inspired ideas, and motivate the writer to grab that pen (or laptop) and start writing again.

Physical and Mental Health Fitness

Another benefit writers gain from traveling is the health aspect it brings them. Because of the nature of their work (and once inspiration sparked), writers are often confined to their desks for endless hours because of that limitless flow of creative juice. Most of them aren’t aware, but if not recognized at the earliest instance, some common health problems they’ll encounter include eye disorders, headaches, musculoskeletal disorders, stress, depression, and so on.

The quickest remedy? Get out and seek new places to spend time. A nature hike into the wilderness would solve those muscle stiffness problems. An hour of sitting by the beach side and staring out into the ocean will refresh and reboot the mind – a good mental health exercise. Spending the whole day in the dewy, green countryside can do wonders for eyes and headaches.

Authenticity in Writing

Some writers travel for the learning experience, to gain knowledge, or for research purposes. So that their work will be legitimate and authentic, they go to meet people, visit places, or immerse in an experience that is the subject of their work. A plus benefit? They get to learn new languages and have the opportunity to expand their vocabulary.

“Me” Time

Just like any other profession, writers also need that “me” time for themselves. Traveling is a chance for that much-needed time to relax and do anything besides work. It is a time to reboot a person’s system, get in touch with their wants and needs, and enjoy the time away doing the things they love.

Call it a time to unplug and unwind, to relieve the brain from stress. After all, writers are humans too.

Becoming a Travel Writer

Some people travel to become travel writers or to have a travel blog. This interest may have stemmed from their existing love of visiting places, going on trips, exploring adventures, etc.

Becoming a travel writer means having no boss! You’re in a career that you’re passionate about and doing something you highly love and are motivated.

Author Wayne Scott Harral is a writer that has seen the world. With an extensive traveling experience to more than 40 countries, this writer’s journey proved to be an eye-opener and gave him the inspiration and the creativity to write his book, Moon Luck.

So if you’re a writer and need a mind-refresher and reboot, pack up those bags, go out, travel, and see the world!

Will life be the same without science? Can the world survive without technology’s advancement?

If there is one thing that is consistently progressing in this world, that is the constant progression of science and technology. The existence of science and technology and their impact on human life and this world are present and evident everywhere and anywhere. The cup of joe you have every morning results from scientific experimentation finely tuned by technology.

The shoes and clothes you wear result from what science and technology can do to dress up men. The food you eat, the books you’re reading, the vehicles you’re riding on, and almost anything that makes life convenient for an individual is products of science and technology.

This tells how essential are the function and use of science and technology.

Moon Luck by Harral is a book that exemplifies the benefits of science and technology. Author Scott Harral tells the story about 30 astronauts residing on the moon for purposes of carrying out experiments and research, with a twist of suspenseful plot in the form of a murder mystery. The book is a one-of-a-kind science fiction, using science and technology at the core of the uniquely created mystery plot.

Overview of Science & Technology

Although people often regard these two words as having the same meaning, there’s a distinction between what is science and what is technology.

Science has a practical definition. Science is commonly described as a structured study of the natural and physical world. The study involves a methodology of objective observation, measurement and data, investigation, and experimentation.

Science is a quest for knowledge. When people started getting curious, asking what, when, why, who, where, and how, that’s how science as a branch of study started to evolve. For this study to progress, it needs tools to support its research, findings, and conclusion.

This is when technology comes in – which leads next to the meaning of technology.

From the above understanding of what science is, anyone can say that technology is already the application of scientific knowledge.

Role in Life’s Progress

The book Moon Luck is a good case in point that depicts science and technology’s roles in people’s lives. People could go to the moon by combining these two pieces of knowledge. Individuals were able to calculate and plot how people would be able to survive life in outer space.

Even within just the Earth’s surface, miracles are already taking place because of the efficient utilization of these two studies. From the building infrastructures people inhabit to the meals and dishes they eat to the healing sustenance such as drugs and medicines that can overcome sickness and prolong life, this world is already a basketful brimming with science and technology.

Because these so-called “miracles” are the answers people have been seeking throughout their lives.

Technology can create those dream homes if people want to live in comfortable and convenient houses.

If people want to go from point A to point B in the shortest amount of time, science could help formulate a plan for it to come true, and technology can create fast-moving modes of transportation.

And if a person wants to communicate with someone on the other side of the Earth, it can be done so fast and efficiently – not to mention at a lower cost!

The role that science and technology play in life’s progress is a problem-solver. They make things easy and convenient for people. They provide the answers that are seemingly impossible to solve. They offer solutions to challenging problems.

In short, science and technology made this world a habitable place.

What would the world be without science and technology

Unimaginable. If famous Italian astronomer, physicist, and scientist Galileo Galilei didn’t insist back in the 1500s that the world is round, everyone would have been scared to travel the globe for fear of falling off from a “flat-surfaced earth.” Suppose Isaac Newton didn’t get hit (supposedly!) by an apple in the head; people would have no idea about the law of gravity or physics or the explanation why things fell coming from the top and not from the bottom.

Conversely, if Benjamin Franklin didn’t endeavor to fly a kite with a key attached to it during a thunderstorm, everyone would still be in the dark ages without electricity.

A world without science and technology is like getting lost in a jungle without a map or in the middle of a vast ocean with no compass or anything to guide you in the right direction. A world without science and technology is a life without meaning or purpose since no one has risked the chance to find answers to their questions.

Ultimately, the only way for life to progress and advance is through the push of science and technology.

The moon, one of our most appreciated celestial bodies, has been a part of our imagination and longing for more outside our world.

The mystery of the moon, planets, and space provides people with the wonder and excitement that fuels them to learn more about this subject. Generally, people love exploring the immense possibilities regarding their existence and those around them. And to partly satisfy this desire, people create stories and fiction focusing on exploring the boundaries of their imaginations. For instance, the book “Moon Luck” by Wayne Scott Harral, a Story of astronauts living on the Moon, presents the possibility of moon habitation, one of the many fascinating and spellbinding ideas people love to investigate.

Every time people gaze at the depths of the night sky, they imagine something beyond compare. They are fascinated by its illumination, taking as a centerpiece among the stars that shine in deep darkness. But what are the reasons for our fascination with the moon?

The Moon Illuminates a Time of Heightened Emotions and Potent Creativity

The moon’s arrival seems like an avenue for poets and writers to use as a muse for their poems and writings. It influences them to compose poetry, novels, nursery rhymes, and other folklore about it. Fiction writers are also fascinated with this majestic heavenly body. There is a long tradition of this fascination that has turned it into literary art.

The mystery, commanding power, energy, intuition, and presence of the moon have captivated their curiosity about this celestial body. People are fascinated by the moon for this simple reason: they see themselves in its image. Like the moon, they have mysteries in their bodies they don’t know about. The energy they give to other people by befriending or connecting with them is the same as the moon. The moon gives them the same energy by providing light and illuminating people with its poetry and life every night.

The moon is the only sole universal body that can be seen from the earth without needing the assistance of a telescope. It is the closest heavenly body to planet earth.

One of the fascinating things about the moon is its nearness and vividness to earth. With a distance of 238,900 miles from Earth, it’s the closest celestial body to it. Hence, it’s the most noticeable from the enduring crowd of heavenly bodies at night.

Also, the Moons Control Fertility

Many early civilizations believed that the moon determined when women could become pregnant. This could explain why female moon deities from the Chinese goddess Change to Mama Quilla of the Incas are so prominent worldwide in mythologies. According to some theories proposed, full moons cause an uptick in births, flooding maternity wards with mothers-to-be in labor. However, recent studies and most experts think otherwise and state that any lunar effect on procreation is imagined.

There is a Connection to Divine Creation and Wisdom with This Cosmic Sensation

The moon may be virginal and sterile, but it seems its own birth was highly dramatic. Creationism refers to creation myths or an unrelated concept about the soul’s origin. It is also a religious belief that nature and its aspects, such as the universe, earth, life, and humans, originated with supernatural acts of divine creation. In this respect, celestial bodies like the moon have often been linked to creationism.

It is a fact that people have always been fascinated by the moon. The deep lunar connections and powers between humans and the moon have existed since the beginning of time. This wondrous, white, pearly object we admire in the night sky impacts the world in more ways than one.

Whatever the fascination, the moon and its effect on humans is still somewhat mastery that needs to be explored, entangled, and solved for future generations to come. So now, all people can do is admire the moon from afar, write about it or make folktales about its origin and meaning for existence.

Why the Moon Means to People

The moon is always related to the human mind. It seems like the moon and man are part of something bigger. Maybe the universe, perhaps? We still don’t know. Man’s understanding of his environment is still limited, and these things need further investigation. How much the moon means to them is not entirely determined, and the compelling part is that there are a lot of endeavors trying to explain it. These efforts are growing every now and then, striving to fulfill the human’s thirst to make sense of his environment and all of what he sees and considers. The vital thing to know is that the fundamental knowledge humans have in the world will stand the test of time, and only time will tell what will happen in human efforts to explain his position in this brief but unforgettable time he has in the universe.

Older Posts