Alan “Doc” Hansen is a lifelong fan of science fiction. Growing up in a small town in Utah, he devoured the works of early science fiction masters such as Edgar Rice Burroughs, E. E. “Doc” Smith, and Robert Heinlein. Among contemporary writers, his favorite is Lois McMaster Bujold, whose character-driven storytelling continues to inspire his own writing.

Alan is the author of the five-book Orion’s Spur young adult science fiction series: Demeter, Return to Demeter, Defending Demeter, Haumeah, and Paragon’s Virtue. Many of the characters in the series were inspired by his five children. The series follows a coming-of-age storyline that explores themes such as bullying, courage, friendship, and sacrifice. His novel Salt of the Earth moves into more adult science fiction territory, centered on the emerging industry of mining in space. The story explores questions such as who has the right to mine extraterrestrial resources, the geopolitical implications of space industry, and the financial challenges of frontier ventures. As with all of his writing, the focus remains on characters and their choices rather than on technical lectures about engineering. The next book in the series, Sea of Salt, is currently at the publisher and is expected to be released later this year. Meanwhile, Salt of the Earth is being narrated for an audiobook release. A third book in the series, Pandora’s Box, has been completed and is now in editing.

Alan is also the author of Project Lilliput, perhaps his most purely adventurous and fun story to date. Readers have frequently asked for a sequel, leaving him with a difficult choice: continue the Salt of the Earth series or return to the imaginative world of Project Lilliput. Deep thought or pure adventure—sometimes that’s a tough decision.

Alan holds three degrees: a BA in Japanese, an MBA, and a PhD in Higher Education Administration. His career has spanned several fields, beginning as a linguist with the National Security Agency, followed by twenty-five years in business and another twenty years in higher education. In 2026, Alan and his wife celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary. Together they have five children and thirteen grandchildren. These days, the grandchildren’s quirks and personalities are beginning to find their way into his stories.

What do I think about AI? I haven't used in my books, but do use it to polish blog posts and this bio. Check out my website at orionsspur.com or follow me on Facebook. I keep trying to engage in Instagram, but rarely use it.