The planar earth, geocentric paradigm with its subsumed proximate cosmology and discluded (metaphysical) gravitation, necessitates a kinematic rather than dynamic approach to understanding celestial motions. The reason for the kinematic approach is simple: while an understanding of forces underlying celestial motions is obviously problematic given the sophistry of heliocentrism with its metaphysical theories of gravitation and relativity, there is nevertheless a vast historical repertoire of observational data at our disposal, not to mention the current advanced state of observational, analytical, and computational technologies with which to carry out new observations and experiments.

The definition of kinematics (as stated by Bottema and Roth) is as follows:

[…] Formally, kinematics is that branch of mechanics which treats the phenomenon of motion without regard to the cause of the motion. In kinematics there is no reference to mass or force; the concern is only with relative positions and their changes.¹

To establish the context of their work, Bottema and Roth subsequently qualify the use of the word theoretical in the title of their book, stating:

We have used the adjective theoretical in our title in order to distinguish our subject from applied kinematics, which deals with the application of kinematics: to mechanical contrivances, to the theory of machines, and to the analysis and synthesis of mechanisms. Much of what is written herein could be used to study mechanical devices. However, our aim is broader: what we give is the development of the theory independent of any particular application, a presentation of the subject as a fundamental science in its own right. This is important because our science touches on many areas: Everything that moves has kinematical aspects.² […]

Bottema and Roth cite a number of recent applications of kinematics in diverse fields including biomechanics, geology, robotics, structural chemistry, and surgery.³

Hence, the science of kinematics, not the study of hypothetical or metaphysical forces, is most appropriate for the study of the motion of the sun and other celestial entities, and in that respect, readers undertaking any such study are encouraged to consult the book, Theoretical Kinematics by Bottema and Roth, or other comprehensive references on the subject.

Obviously, the goal here (apart from upholding the planar earth, geocentric paradigm) is to produce kinematically-based ephemerides.

— FINIS —