Based on the definition it appears that unless you know what you are saying is false, the answer is no. Nancy would have to be considered a "public figure" so she would have to prove "actual malice". I wonder, maybe this is how she really plans to make money. Get a good lawyer and sue everyone on sci.astro. But seriously, I have never seen so many insults directed at a person. Someone that I held in high esteem. Wow. ABC