jonathon <jonathon.bl...@gmail.com> writes: > The source code for the ephemeris is physical observations of the stars, > planets, and other bodies in it.
The physical observations are not a work of expression; likewise, my physical observation of a mountain is not a work of expression. They may be the “source of the data” in some sense, but that sense is not relevant for figuring out the license on a work of expression. In the mountain example, the mountain is not a work of expression; a digitally-recorded photograph of that moment at a place and time *is* a work of expression. It may even be the source form of the work. The “physical observations of [natural phenomena]” does not describe a form of the work, so it cannot be the source form of the work. Rather, the source form of the work is whichever form of the work – in this case, some specific form of the ephemeris data – which would be preferred for the purpose of making modifications to the work. -- \ “Think for yourselves and let others enjoy the privilege to do | `\ so too.” —Voltaire, _Essay On Tolerance_ | _o__) | Ben Finney
