From deep space to deep pockets

It looks like staring into deep space has international appeal, the kind that is going to bring in cosmic amounts of cash.

The Thirty Meter Telescope being planned for the summit of Mauna Kea has stirred significant controversy over environmental and Hawaiian cultural impacts, but some countries are cheering and waving bulging purses. It’s unofficial, but India’s offer, in exchange for time on the telescope, has been estimated at $150 million. Canada, Japan and China also have signed on as investor-partners, according to the Associated Press.

"Time on the telescope will be shared among the partners based on their contributions to the design, construction and operations costs," TMT board member Mike Bolte told the Star-Advertiser.

What about the University of Hawaii? Fear not, Bolte added: UH astronomers’ observation time will be worked out as part of the sublease.

Legislature’s website gets a facelift

The opening of the next legislative session is more than a month away. Only a real political wonk would be hanging out on the state Capitol website during the intersession break.

Well, the wonks will inform you that the site (www.capitol.hawaii.gov) now will be unrecognizable to you, having undergone a complete renovation. The Legislative Reference Bureau has created a downloadable roadmap of sorts. Click the "View It" link in the Recent Updates box, up top. Happy hunting.