TMT alternative ADVERTISING TMT alternative There are three ways to mount a telescope: on the ground, on an aircraft, in space. The airborne option is not a consideration. The bone of contention here is the ground on which the Thirty
TMT alternative
There are three ways to mount a telescope: on the ground, on an aircraft, in space.
The airborne option is not a consideration. The bone of contention here is the ground on which the Thirty Meter Telescope is to be mounted, a sacred location to many. Ever since Hubble was launched and repaired, thanks to some very talented astronauts, space-borne telescopes have proven invaluable. Science has been used as a lever, but this is a construction project poised to make a few people a lot of money, so in this battle, science is just another casualty of war.
All countries with a stake in this have a space program, so there shouldn’t be a problem with orbital telescopes.
All that would be needed on the ground would be a network of antennas for a data link, which would present a very minimal footprint, with a satellite constellation in a geostationary position. Research organizations could train with various space agencies to provide their own orbital telescope technicians because by the time they iron out the bugs, going into space should be much more commonplace. Earth-based astronomers would still be employed.
As for deliveries, they could be launched on the same rocket that supplies the space station. Another launch option would use the same type of vehicle that was designed to deliver multiple warheads at different locations, permitting a cluster of telescopes to be deployed autonomously.
What economist Thorstein Veblen said about dealing with institutions in 1899 has not changed one iota: “Institutions are products of the past process, are adapted to past circumstances, and are therefore never in full accord with the requirements of the present.”
They wouldn’t be pushing so hard to build it if someone didn’t stand to make a fortune from it.
Dave Kisor
Pahoa
Tidy up areas
Recent articles in the Tribune-Herald about the beautification projects set for the Banyan Drive areas certainly will benefit residents and tourists alike.
The historic trees on Banyan Drive are in bad need of “haircuts.” The overgrowth of these trees blocks the sunlight, and at night the area becomes very dark, with so much of the foliage blocking the streetlights, making it difficult to see the roadway while driving and or walking.
Also, that ugly, brown-colored concrete bus shelter-like structure fronting the hotel areas is a haven for trash, feral cats, urinals and occasionally shady characters drinking and or partaking in illicit drug activities.
Banyan Drive, as well as the Bayfront area between Mamo Street and Waianuenue Avenue, certainly deserves a badly needed face-lift.
Rick LaMontagne
Hilo
