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The Dark End
The Dark End
The Dark End
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The Dark End

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It is the year 2036. The asteroid Apophis has come and gone. The world is saved, but only for a brief time. Something deadlier is heading towards Earth! Michael Thompson and a small group of scientists must race against the clock to find a way to save mankind. They will be led into the darkness of space, on a journey spanning thousands of years. What is heading to Earth? Will the result be a dark end for mankind?
LanguageEnglish
PublisherLulu.com
Release dateJun 4, 2014
ISBN9781312249394
The Dark End

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    The Dark End - Michel Thomatis

    The Dark End

    the dark end

    By Michel Thomatis

    Michel Thomatis

    Michel Thomatis has spent the last 15 years as a network engineer/architect. As a 10-year CCIE, Michel loves the opportunity to provide training in a wide-array of network technologies. He formerly worked at Cisco, as well as in government, banking, and non-profit organizations. Currently, Michel is the owner and Chief Network Architect and Trainer at RouteHub Group, LLC.  He has published other titles that include the Network Design Cookbook: Architecting Cisco Networks and Keep it Nice and Simple.

    To my loving wife, Amy,

    and to

    Alexander and Michelle

    The Dark End

    by

    Michel Thomatis

    Copyright @ 2014 Michel Thomatis

    All rights reserved.

    ISBN: 978-1-312-23845-9

    No part of this book may be reproduced in any form or by any electronic or mechanical means including information storage and retrieval systems, without permission in writing from the author. The only exception is by a reviewer, who may quote short excerpts in a review.

    June 23,  2014

    Contents

    01/Michael

    02/specialty

    03/Apophis

    04/next stage of life

    05/Apophis II

    06/the discovery

    07/second opinion

    08/confirmation

    09/the event

    10/an alternative

    11/so many things

    12/setback

    13/hidden truth

    14/announcement

    15/let there be power

    16/the first crew

    17/change of plans

    18/the locket

    19/departure

    20/rising tides

    21/high survivors

    22/the dark end

    23/end of the beginning

    24/lead us

    25/divided

    26/fall apart

    27/arrival?

    01/Michael

    As a child, Michael always imagined speeding around the Universe in a spacecraft. He was fascinated with the fact that the Universe is mostly unknown - a black void, expanding without any explanation. Travelling into space seemed like an impossible dream. However, Michael’s imagination never failed him. He hovered in space, looking down at the Milky Way, the spiral galaxy he called home. Racing his spaceship through one of the four spiral arms, Michael first passes through multitudes of gas and dust. He flies by stars of different colors and sizes, including the Alpha Centauri star system – the closest one to his own. He continues through the black of space with billions of the stars floating in the background behind him, carefully navigating through a huge bubble of frozen rocky objects, called the Oort cloud. Michael's powerful spaceship enters our solar system, first passing by a dwarf planet called Sedna, at a staggering 93 billion miles away from the sun as it travels along its elliptical orbit. Next, Michael passes through the Kuiper Belt, and then the Ice Giants of Neptune and Uranus. Michael feels his excitement grow as he approaches the Gas Giants of Saturn and Jupiter, and braces himself for the bumpy ride through the Asteroid belt. Michael slows as he passes by Mars and looks lovingly toward Earth, the amazing planet that he calls home, where life thrives and imaginations soar. As he travels through the atmosphere, approaching the surface, he focuses in on a small park where a young boy and his father are looking up at the stars in the sky.

    Michael Thompson’s fascination with outer space took hold at a very young age. He was always most curious about the origin of the universe, and was frustrated about how many of his questions did not seem to have concrete answers. He absorbed vast amounts of known information about the universe, convinced that he would one day know everything there is to know. He asked questions, read books, and left the rest to his imagination. Michael would imagine being on a powerful rocket flying out into space outside of their galaxy then flying down towards Earth enjoying the many beautiful cosmic attractions of gas and dust along the way. Michael’s dad taught him about the different stars and constellations in the night sky. Michael would dream about taking his imaginary ship to those stars to see what planets were awaiting his visit.

    Michael was an only child of parents who divorced when Michael was only seven. He lived with his mother during the school year, and spent the long summers with his Dad. On Michael’s 10th birthday, he received a small black telescope, several astronomy books, articles, and star maps from his parents. He knew that when he grew up, he wanted to be an astronomer, and his parents supported his unwavering interest.

    As a teenager, Michael started his own local astronomy club with kids in the neighborhood so he could share his interest in space and science with others. Michael had a way of explaining space and science in simple terms, keeping people interested and wanting to hear more. They could feel his passion, and his little astronomy club slowly grew from a few kids in his garage to monthly meetings in the high school gymnasium with up to 200 people in attendance.  Michael graduated from high school with honors, and got a Bachelor’s degree in Astrophysics. Now, he is pursuing his Master’s degree, with the intention of eventually completing his Doctorate and becoming a professor.

    In his graduate classes, Michael always challenged himself and his classmates by asking questions with no answers. In one of his classes, there was a discussion about the creation and expansion of the universe. The universe is defined as ‘expanding’ because when astronomers look up into the sky, they see distant galaxies moving away from us at very high speeds. Michael understood that this is a well-known, fundamental property of the universe, but he felt it was something that needed further exploration – he felt the ‘why’ is as important as the ‘what’ is. Dr. Loren, a well-respected astrophysicist, was leading the discussion. Like Michael, he had knack for explaining complex topics in a way that most would understand them.

    During the discussion of the Universe's origin, Michael thoughtfully raised his hand.

    Yes, Michael. Do you have a question? said Dr. Loren

    What about any pre-big bang theories or hypotheses? asked Michael. There aren't a lot of people talking about that.

    That is true; there has not been a lot of study in that area. What do you think? Do you have any theories of your own?

    Well, it seems that there has to be a point of origin. It’s like the chicken and egg paradox in terms of what came first, said Michael.

    Interesting, what do you mean?

    Well some series of events created this big bang. Therefore, something must have created those events and so forth.

    Or the universe was created from nothing, interrupted Kevin, one of the other students in the class.

    Michael smiled and countered Kevin’s argument. You can’t create something out of nothing. Energy can neither be created nor destroyed. It can only transfer or change form. The big bang was energy that transformed into matter. That energy had to come from something.

    True, but that argument is based on our current understanding of physics. We certainly have a lot more to discover, and one of those discoveries could explain the big bang being created from nothing, said Kevin.

    If there is a different set of rules of physics where that theory is possible, then another universe or space existed where those rules were enforced. What came before that? Michael retorted.

    Ok, gentlemen, said Dr. Loren, jumping into the conversation. Those are great arguments, but there is still much to be learned and we won’t come to a conclusion in this class. Especially since class is now over. Everyone, don't forget about your projects that are due the next time we meet.

    The students in the class began packing up their things to leave. Michael looked over at Kevin, nodding his head with mutual respect. Kevin smiled and nodded back. Before Michael left the room, Dr. Loren asked to speak with him.

    Yes, Dr. Loren? said Michael.

    Great discussion today, Michael. I liked your logical approach, said Dr. Loren. You know, Kevin is much like you in many ways.

    He is certainly a fun person to debate with, responded Michael.

    I was also impressed with your report on wavelengths and vibrations. Have you given much thought to your doctorate studies? asked Dr. Loren.

    Yes, sir. I have thought about it… though I have interests in many areas. Michael replied.

    Well, there’s nothing wrong with having a lot of interests. I won’t keep you any longer. Have a good afternoon. Dr. Loren dismissed Michael with a smile.

    Michael respected the opinion of Dr. Loren, his professor and mentor, since they first met years ago at the University. Michael hoped that one day he would work under his mentor. Dr. Loren was also very fond of Michael and his natural ability to approach the world and problems from a logical, yet sometimes sideways view. Dr. Loren had met many aspiring scientists over his decades of teaching, and he knew Michael would make a name for himself.

    Over the course of the year, Michael and Kevin continued their friendly debates in class. They both were busy with their studies, but found time to form a friendship and develop an unspoken trust in each other.

    What are you working on? said Michael, walking into the library and sitting down in a chair next to Kevin.

    Trying to finish this proposal, said Kevin tiredly.

    Need any help?

    I’m good. What about your doctorate submission?

    I applied to work with Dr. Loren. I have a meeting with him later this afternoon about joining his program. I’m a little nervous..., admitted Michael.

    Michael, you’re in! That's what all of that is about. You are one of the best students in his class, said Kevin.

    Yeah…I think it is too soon to know for sure. It’s a process, you know.

    Well, I’m sure you have nothing to worry about, said Kevin. We are still good for dinner, right?

    Yeah, I’ll meet you there. You better be finished with that proposal, said Michael. I don't want to be the reason you fall behind.

    Ha-ha, funny guy. I'll see you later then, replied Kevin.

    A little while later, Michael walked nervously towards Dr. Loren’s office. He really wanted acceptance into the program, which was highly regarded. He was not sure what to expect, and talked to himself softly about possible questions and answers he would give. There were other students outside waiting as Michael went up and knocked on the door softly.

    Hi, Michael! Come on in. said Dr. Loren as he opened the door and greeted Michael. How is everything going?  Please, have a seat.

    Everything is great, Dr. Loren, replied Michael. I have a few ideas about how I could help your program. I wanted to talk to you about them.

    Just relax, Michael, smiled Dr. Loren. I’ve already decided to accept you into my program.

    I’m accepted? said Michael tentatively. But there are interviews, transcripts ...

    All of that is fine, Michael. This department has always enjoyed the work you have done and we value your contributions, said Dr. Loren.

    Michael was in shock and could not believe this was happening right now. He kept his composure the best he could, as the realization that his dream was coming true, at that very moment, sunk in.

    Thank you very much, sir. Thank you very much for this honor. Michael beamed.

    I’m glad we will continue to work together. I’ll see you tomorrow afternoon, replied Dr. Loren. Michael left the room quickly, his mind racing with thoughts of what this opportunity would mean for his future. After he left Dr. Loren's office, he immediately called Kevin and shared the news. The two friends celebrated late into the night.

    ________

    Over the next few years, Michael spent his time assisting his mentor on the study of asteroid impacts. This was a timely interest, as the Apophis Asteroid would be making a close approach to Earth in April 2029. While that was still several years away, the scientific community was pouring a great deal of attention and resources into the study of Apophis, and preparation for the flyby.

    As the time approached for Michel to defend his dissertation, Michael consulted with Dr. Loren daily. He wanted to pass his dissertation on the first try, and not embarrass himself in front of the board.

    Do you remember years ago when you and Kevin were locked in a debate about pre-big bang theories? said Dr. Loren.

    I do, said Michael nodding his head. Kevin reminds me of that all the time. It was a great discussion.

    It was great for many of us. Why was that important to you?

    Because it’s one of the things about the cosmos that is literally unknown to us, and it allows us to be creative and imagine what is possible, said Michael. I remember as a kid I would imagine traveling through the universe to see the billions of stars and galaxies that are beyond the view of Earth. I guess I have an active imagination, and I need an outlet for it.

    That imagination is one of your biggest strengths, said Dr. Loren. We are always looking for fellow colleagues to join us within the ranks to help us understand these unknowns. Your fresh outlook and motivation is exactly what we need.  Take that thinking to heart with your dissertation.

    Over the next couple of days, Michael reflected on what his professor had said, and knew what he needed to do for his doctorate review. He reviewed and edited his dissertation, ensuring that his imagination was evident, along with all the scientific data he had compiled.

    The day of Michael's dissertation defense, Kevin was there to offer support for his friend.

    Alright, go in, and take care of business, Michael, said Kevin.

    I will. You don’t need to wait, replied Michael. He felt very nervous and secretly hoped his friend would stay.

    I know, but I want to. I’ll work on my own while I wait, said Kevin patting his messenger bag that filled with hundreds of pages and written notes in the pockets. Just relax and show them what you got.

    Michael smiled at his friend, took a deep breath, and went in.

    The dissertation review lasted for hours. When it was finally over, Michael walked out of the room, relieved it was over. He walked over to his friend, who glanced up and pushed all his work aside when he saw his friend walking up to him.

    So how was it? said Kevin anxiously.

    Michael stood looking at Kevin without any emotion and not saying anything, still exhausted from the seemingly unending questions from the board. Then he let a big smile fill his face.

    You did it! said Kevin excited, yet unsure.

    Yeah, I sure did!, said Michael excitedly.

    Kevin reached over to give his friend a hug once he heard the news.

    See I told you, Doctor Michael Thompson! said Kevin So what happened?

    I like that name, said Michael proudly. Come on. I'll tell you how it went. I am starving. The friends went to their favorite diner as Michael recounted the review to Kevin. He shared which members of the board asked the most questions, and the types of data they were really focused on. Michael hoped the tidbits of information would help his friend feel more relaxed and prepared when his turn came up the following week.

    Later that night, Michael met with his professor at a small restaurant near the university.

    Dr. Thompson! Congratulations once again, my friend. I knew you could do it. The review board was very impressed with the depth of you knowledge and how well-prepared you were.

    I just listened to what you said and somehow knew what needed to get done, said Michael.

    I knew it would. So you are now no longer a student of mine, but a colleague.

    I will always be student of yours. Always learning regardless of what I have accomplished.

    Yes, of course. We are all students. We are always learning because there is so much we do not know, said Dr. Loren. So… what are you planning to do now? Have you chosen an area to specialize in for your career?

    I’m still thinking about it, said Michael.  I have put all my energy into getting through today! I do know that I want to do something that isn’t widely studied right now.

    Fair enough. You did a great job today.  Take some time to relax and enjoy your accomplishment. You'll decide your specialty in due time.

    02/specialty

    One year had passed and Michael was a guest speaker at a local high school, talking with students and answering their questions. The back of the room was filled with scientists and a couple of people from the media who were writing a piece on Science and our Youth.  Michael was pleased as he scanned the crowd and saw a familiar face - his friend and mentor Dr. Joseph Loren.

    One of the students in the class raised his hand to ask a question.

    I’ve heard about things in space being dense or having high pressure, said one of the students in the class, what does that mean exactly?

    That’s a great question, Phillip, said Michael. When someone refers to a planet or a star being dense, it’s like they are saying how heavy it is. For example, let us say we have a bowling ball and a soccer ball. What is the same between them?

    They are the same size

    That’s right.  Now, besides the color or the texture or the look of these objects, how are they different?

    Well, the bowling ball is heavier than the soccer ball, answered another student in the class.

    That’s right. So that means the bowling ball is denser than the soccer ball. The bowling ball has more mass than the soccer ball, said Michael. It’s like the soccer ball was made up of 5 golf balls, but the bowling ball is made up of 1000 golf balls

    But 1000 golf balls would never fit inside the bowling ball. There is no room for them all, said Phillip.

    That’s right. So, those 1000 golf balls must be pushed and smashed down together really tight to fit inside of that bowling ball, replied Michael. "And our sun can hold 1,000,000 Earths inside of it, like a soccer ball holding 5 golf balls. 

    Now, one day our Sun will die - billions of years from now.  Our sun will become what’s called a white dwarf star, and it will be the same size as Earth."

    Yeah, we could live on Mars or maybe in some other galaxy, said one of students.

    That is certainly possible in the future, said Michael.

    Now this next part will blow your mind.  Listen carefully.  When the sun dies and it becomes a white dwarf, it will be the size of the Earth.  Moreover, it will still be able to hold 1,000,000 Earths!  Those one million Earths would need to be doing a lot of pushing and squeezing to fit into that tiny space.

    And it will be very heavy!, shouted Phillip.

    Yes, and dense and hot, replied Michael.

    Ok, I know you have many more questions for Dr. Thompson, so you can email your questions to him this evening and he’ll reply to you over the next week, said the teacher, jumping in as the class was about to end. Let’s all give Dr. Thompson a round of applause for coming in and answering our questions.

    As the class ended, Michael went to the back of room to meet up with his mentor, who greeted him with a hug.

    Great lecture, Michael! said Dr. Loren excitedly. You always know how to explain what we do in simple terms.

    Thank you, sir, said Michael humbly.

    I want to introduce you to a few people, said Dr. Loren, motioning to a group of people standing quietly near him. This is Dr. Jason Bleason, who specializes in Dark Matter and Dark Energy. This is Dr. Noah Eisen, who specializes in the search for Exoplanets, and this is Dr. Alex Zinat, who specializes with asteroid impacts. Dr. Zinat and I have worked closely together for many years.

    It’s a pleasure to meet you all, said Michael, shaking everyone’s hand. I have followed much of your work over the years.

    News people were hovering around taking pictures and yelling questions to the group of distinguished scientists, huddled in the back together.  The majority of their questions dealt with the asteroid Apophis, which would be passing by Earth in the next few years. With all of the snapping cameras and noise, Michael had a sudden need to get out and get some fresh air. As Michael hurried out of the room, he accidentally bumped into a young woman, who he assumed was a reporter. It turned out she wasn’t, and Michael would be very glad he stopped to speak with her.

    I am sorry, miss, said Michael.

    That's okay. It’s pretty packed in here, replied the young woman. I enjoyed your lecture today.

    Well, thank you! replied Michael.  What’s your name?

    My name is Amy and I am a big fan of your work, replied the woman, as she shook Michael’s hand.

    Thank you - I do appreciate it, said Michael. I have always loved space and science since I was a kid. What do you do, might I ask?

    I’m a writer.  My specialty is children’s books about space.

    That’s great, replied Michael. Anything I may have heard of?

    I doubt it, laughed Amy.  But maybe, I wrote a series called ‘Moon Rocks’, which follows a brother and sister on adventures in space.

    Believe it or not, I have heard of that series! replied Michael excitedly. I have read some of the books to younger students I mentor. I really like the way you combine imagination and science. I am honored to meet you!

    Well, thank you, replied Amy shyly.

    Michael looked up and saw his mentor waving at him to come over.

    I see they are calling for me. I have to go, but it was pleasure to meet you.  I look forward to your next book, said Michael.

    Okay, answered Amy. It was nice to meet you.

    Michael took a deep breath and moved back into the crowd to speak to Dr. Loren.

    Later that night, Michael and Dr. Loren were walking around the quiet campus at the university. The sun was setting, reflecting an orange glow across the courtyard where they walked.

    Have you decided what you’re going to focus on for your career? asked Dr. Loren.

    Well, I’m interested in pre-big bang theories, replied Michael.  I’d like to work out some more theories about what happened before the big bang.  It is not widely studied.

    That is a great area that could separate you from the pack.  I encourage you to start with a broad theory, and then narrow your focus as you make progress.

    I can do that, responded Michael humbly. Are you still focusing your efforts around asteroid impacts and the asteroid Apophis?

    Absolutely! It’s exciting times, said Dr. Loren passionately. There is so much to learn, and with Apophis passing by so closely, it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity.

    Exciting for some, but concerning to many others, added Michael.

    Remember this, Michael, said Dr. Loren, stopping to face him. Humans will always be frightened of things they don't understand. We like things to always be the same and to never change. We have such a complex ego that we are the most powerful entity and that we cannot be destroyed. Unfortunately, that is not true and one day humans will face that reality.

    Michael and Dr. Loren said goodnight and parted ways.  Later that night, Michael walked around in circles in his small, tidy apartment, looking at floor. He looked first at his star maps that covered the wall, and then moved to pictures of his family, hanging on the wall in his living room. Michael felt unsettled about his future.  He wanted to be an expert in something important – something that would make him significant among his peers.  As interested as he was in pre-big-bang theories, something did not feel

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