. . . take it 'too seriously', that is.

My request for further clarification from fellow posters was just that, Rob, and if you stepped on my toes, it was far too light for me to feel. You'll find my skin to be extraordinarily thick on issues regarding space sciences. I do not hold a degree in the field, but I feel I have a pretty good picture of what's going on out there.

As for the BBS, this is not a public forum, but a semi-public forum. I know there are thoughts still circling here as to whether the board should be closed off and the members provided password access. A new format is currently being worked on, but, as far as I know, the board will remain open to current and future posters (there are a choice few loons who have been banned -- and they know who they are).

We have not gone the rout of password protection, feeling the want and the need for interaction with new serious posters. The net was designed for communication, and the web was designed for general access. Please bear in mind that the HabitableZone boards are monitored, and the free access we all enjoy here is a privilege, not a right.

Cheers, and keep posting,
Dan