Discuss Earth's apparent attitude toward the sciences in the book and compare it to contemporary attitudes toward science. Is space travel possible? Is it desirable? Why or why not?

Throughout the book, JonVon proves to be of great assistance to the crew at almost every turn. The biocomputer also produces a great amount of poetry. Is JonVon "intelligent?" Why or why not?

Are there any moments in which the prejudices of the people on Halley's Comet seem well-founded? List four misconceptions that either Percells have about Orthos or that Orthos have about Percells.

Ould-Harrad gives up his command and one point. Why does he do this? What does he become? What is his opinion of Saul?

Why is Virginia attracted to Saul and not Carl? What is Carl's impression of Saul, and how does their relationship affect his judgement?

Saul manages to modify many...