[Suggestion] - A fun fact about Mercury

[AlchemistCH]

This one may have an interesting metaphorical side - which Monika would be sure to pick on

The optimal observation condition (if I remember correctly) is defined by both inclination and eccentricity of Mercury's orbit, making it to be seen further from the Sun and higher above the horizon (although this part is also latitude-dependent) at particular time of year - which has caused an interesting side-effect to observing the surface.

I'm not really familiar with the MAS expression system, but if somebody is willing to set the expressions, here is the dialogue. Also, the last line could be dependent on the affection level.

"Apparently, for a long while the astronomers believed that the planet Mercury is always facing the Sun with the same side."
"In truth, it completes one and a half rotations in one orbital period..."
"Which makes the daylight cycle two orbital periods long."
"Imagine a day lasting for two years!"
"Anyway,"
"The biggest issue with observation of Mercury is its closeness to the Sun."
"It's difficult to see even at the most advantageous phase."
"And apparently, Mercury has quite peculiar orbit, which makes it easiest to observe near a particular point."
"Therefore, the optimal observation conditions happen once per year, as the planet passes this point while seen at the most opportune angle."
"And in one Earth year, Mercury completes 4 orbits around the Sun and 6 rotations around its axis..."
"So, as the telescopes became powerful enough to see the surface features, the astronomers found themselves seeing the same side again and again."
"Which resulted in wrong conclusions about the planet's rotation." 
"And it took 20th century radio telescopes to disprove the misconception!"
"You see..."
"Sometimes, seeing the same side of things again and again is not because they are always the same way."
"But due to the limitations of your own point of view."
"..."
"Thank you for giving me a chance to be seen from a different angle, [player]."

[Freshairkaboom]

I like the topic a lot :) I have some time now until Christmas, maybe I'll look at it next time I am able to code something. Other than the expression system, do you know how to add a new fun fact? If so, I could suggest some expressions you could use, although the devs will have to go through the expressions anyway, so it's not so important to get them perfect on the first go.

[AshtonSnapp]

I love this topic.

[paragonfist]

Am I misunderstanding something? If it finishes 1.5 rotations in 1 orbital period, that means that the daylight cycle is 0.67 orbits, not 2 orbits...

[mrguyontheinternet]

seems like a good fact to put in the mod. maybe take out the last sentence. other than that seems alright.