Dedication
To the memory of Arthur G. Montgomery; my grandfather. A man who was an
inspiration by his lifelong dedication to learning. His desire to fuel my interest in the
scientific world was evident in many ways. Most notable was when he bought his first
computer, (a TRS-80!) he let a child's curiosity wonder, turning me loose to begin
learning how to program it. I guess he realized then that computers would become such
an integral part of my life that I'd better learn about them as early as possible. Later in my
career he made a point to keep up on the latest discoveries in astronomy, and Mars in
particular, so that whenever I would visit he could discuss them with me.
Although he is not able to be with me in person as I finally earn my Ph.D., I know
that he is with me in spirit.