Published

2 years ago

March 24, 2024

Alice Rush

History of The Hubble

The Hubble Space Telescope, a cornerstone of modern astronomy, boasts a rich history filled with collaboration, innovation, and overcoming challenges.

Here’s a glimpse into its fascinating journey:

Seeds of an Idea (1940s):

The concept of a space-based telescope first emerged in the 1940s. Astronomers envisioned an instrument free from the interference of Earth’s atmosphere, allowing for clearer observations of the cosmos.

Planning and Development (1960s-1980s):

Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, the project gained momentum. NASA and the European Space Agency (ESA) collaborated, proposing a 3-meter telescope. In 1977, the U.S. Congress approved funding, and the project was officially named the Hubble Space Telescope after Edwin Hubble, the astronomer who made groundbreaking discoveries about galaxies.

A Flaw and a Fix (1980s):

Unfortunately, a critical error was discovered during construction. The primary mirror, the telescope’s “eye,” was flawed, causing blurry images. This led to the development of corrective optics, ingenious instruments installed during the first servicing mission in 1993, which ultimately saved the mission.

Launch and Early Challenges (1990):

Hubble was launched aboard the Space Shuttle Discovery in 1990. Initially, astronomers were met with blurry images due to the mirror flaw. The successful servicing mission in 1993, however, transformed Hubble into the powerful instrument we know today.

A Legacy of Discovery (1990s-Present):

Since its “fix,” Hubble has become an invaluable tool for astronomers. It has captured iconic images of distant galaxies, nebulae, and stellar nurseries. It has provided crucial data on the expansion of the universe, the formation of stars and planets, and even the existence of exoplanets (planets outside our solar system).

Hubble continues to operate today, undergoing multiple servicing missions throughout its lifetime. It remains a testament to international collaboration, scientific innovation, and the ongoing quest to understand the universe we inhabit.

Discovered Hubble: Eyes of the Earth

The Hubble Space Telescope, aptly nicknamed “Eyes of the Earth,” is a marvel of modern science and engineering. Launched in 1990, it revolutionized our understanding of the universe by offering an unprecedented view from beyond Earth’s atmosphere.

A New Perspective:

Unlike ground-based telescopes hindered by the distortions of our atmosphere, Hubble orbits Earth at a distance of roughly 340 miles. This allows it to capture images with exceptional clarity, revealing details invisible to the naked eye or even the most powerful Earth-bound telescopes.

A Universe Unveiled:

Hubble’s discoveries have been nothing short of spectacular. It has provided crucial evidence for the accelerating expansion of the universe, a phenomenon attributed to the mysterious force known as dark energy. It has also captured stunning images of distant galaxies, revealing their diverse shapes and sizes, and offering glimpses into the early stages of the universe’s formation.

Beyond the Galaxies:

Hubble’s reach extends beyond the vast expanse of galaxies. It has peered into the heart of our own solar system, studying the intricate details of planets, moons, and other celestial bodies. It has even played a key role in the discovery of exoplanets, planets orbiting stars beyond our solar system.

A Legacy of Discovery:

Over its three decades in operation, Hubble has generated a treasure trove of data, fueling countless scientific breakthroughs and inspiring generations of scientists and astronomers. It continues to operate today, serving as a testament to human ingenuity and our relentless pursuit of knowledge about the universe we inhabit.

Hubble is a powerful reminder that there is so much more to discover beyond our planet. It serves as a constant source of wonder and a symbol of our collective human journey to unravel the mysteries of the cosmos.

The Hubble Telescope Technology

The Hubble Space Telescope, launched in 1990, revolutionized astronomy by offering an unprecedented view of the universe. This marvel of engineering relies on various cutting-edge technologies to capture stunning images and gather valuable data.

1. Mirrors:

Primary Mirror: The heart of Hubble is its 2.4-meter diameter primary mirror, the largest ever flown in space at its launch. This mirror collects and focuses light from distant celestial objects. However, a grinding error initially produced blurry images, which were later corrected during the first servicing mission with the installation of COSTAR (COmpensating Optical Support System Aberrations Recorder).

Secondary and Tertiary Mirrors: These smaller mirrors work in conjunction with the primary mirror to direct the light path within the telescope, ultimately focusing it onto the scientific instruments.

2. Imaging Systems:

Hubble utilizes a suite of specialized instruments, each designed to capture specific wavelengths of light:

Wide Field Camera 3 (WFC3): This versatile camera captures high-resolution, detailed images across various wavelengths, offering data from ultraviolet to near-infrared. It has captured iconic images like the “Pillars of Creation” and the “Deep Field” views.

Cosmic Origins Spectrograph (COS): This instrument acts like a light prism, splitting light into its constituent colors to reveal the chemical composition of celestial objects.

Other Instruments: Hubble boasts additional specialized instruments like the Advanced Camera for Surveys (ACS), the Space Telescope Imaging Spectrograph (STIS), and the Faint Object Spectrograph (FOS), each contributing significantly to our understanding of the universe.

3. Guidance and Control Systems:

Maintaining precise pointing is crucial for capturing clear images of faint objects. A complex system of gyroscopes, star trackers, and reaction wheels keeps Hubble pointed with incredible accuracy, even as it orbits Earth at high speeds.

4. Data Transmission:

The vast amount of scientific data collected by Hubble’s instruments needs to be transmitted back to Earth. High-speed telemetry systems send this data down to ground stations for processing and analysis by scientists worldwide.

These key technologies have made the Hubble Space Telescope a cornerstone of modern astronomy, paving the way for groundbreaking discoveries and inspiring generations of scientists and astronomers.

The Hubble Telescope: Research and Exploration

The Hubble Space Telescope, launched in 1990, has revolutionized our understanding of the universe through its groundbreaking research and exploration capabilities. Here’s how:

1. Unveiling the Early Universe:

Hubble has peered deep into space and time, capturing images of galaxies billions of light-years away, allowing us to see the universe as it was in its early stages. These observations have provided vital clues about the origin, evolution, and structure of the cosmos.

2. Understanding the Expansion of the Universe:

Hubble’s observations of distant supernovae, exploding stars, provided strong evidence for the accelerating expansion of the universe. This discovery led to the theory of dark energy, a mysterious force believed to be responsible for this phenomenon.

3. Mapping the Distribution of Matter:

Hubble’s observations help map the distribution of dark matter, an invisible form of matter that makes up a significant portion of the universe’s mass. By studying the gravitational lensing effect of dark matter on light, scientists can map its presence and understand its impact on the evolution of galaxies and the universe.

4. Studying the Formation of Stars and Planets:

Hubble has captured stunning images of star-forming nebulae and protoplanetary disks, offering valuable insights into the birth of stars and planetary systems. These observations allow scientists to study the early stages of star and planet formation and the factors influencing these processes.

5. Searching for Exoplanets:

While not its primary mission, Hubble has also contributed to the search for exoplanets, planets outside our solar system. It has detected atmospheric signatures of some exoplanets, providing crucial information about their composition and potential habitability.

6. Investigating Black Holes:

Hubble has studied supermassive black holes, objects with immense gravitational pull, residing at the centers of most galaxies. These observations provide insights into the growth and behavior of black holes and their influence on the surrounding galaxies.

Beyond these specific areas, Hubble has contributed to countless other research endeavors, making it an invaluable tool for astronomers worldwide. Its legacy continues to inspire and shape our understanding of the universe, paving the way for future exploration and discovery.

https://www.exaputra.com/2024/02/discovered-hubble-eyes-of-earth.html

Renewable Energy

Before Trump, “Contempt of Court” Used to Be a Big Deal

Published

19 hours ago

November 28, 2025

Alice Rush

Most Americans, me included, are puzzled as to how the Trump administration can openly thumb its nose to the findings of our courts. Until recently, behavior like this would have wound you up in jail.

Before Trump, “Contempt of Court” Used to Be a Big Deal

Renewable Energy

How Households Saved $1,200 with VEU & Air-Con Upgrade?

Published

1 day ago

November 28, 2025

Alice Rush

Over the decades, many households across Victoria have resided in older suburban homes equipped with traditional ducted gas heating and aging split-system air conditioners.

However, today the scenario has changed significantly. As energy prices rise, families are feeling the pinch, with annual heating and cooling costs often rising $2,000.

But what are the main issues?

Gas systems that waste energy heating unused rooms, old non-inverter aircons that struggle to maintain even temperatures, and confusion among residents about how rebates, such as the Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program, actually work.

That’s where trusted providers like Cyanergy Australia step in!

By replacing outdated systems with efficient reverse-cycle multi-split air-conditioning and applying VEU rebates, we help many households to cut energy bills, reduce emissions, and enjoy year-round comfort, all in one smart upgrade.

This air conditioning upgrade can lead to a smoother transition from gas to clean, efficient electric heating and cooling, building a smarter, more sustainable home.

So, let’s break down how the household saved $1,200 with the VEU & Air-Con upgrade, what the program offers, and how you can take advantage of similar rebates to cut costs and enjoy a more energy-efficient home.

In this blog post:

Cyanergy’s Energy Assessment: What We Found!

From the beginning, Cyanergy’s focus was to remove or disconnect the old gas ducted heater, install a modern
reverse-cycle multi-split air conditioning system, claim the VEU discount, and significantly reduce your annual
energy bills.

Simply via the effective air-conditioner upgrade, households can “Save
up to $2,000 a year on your energy bill.

Here are the findings after Cyanergy’s initial home energy visit:

In many Victorian households, the ducted
gas heater is still in use, with high standing and fuel costs.
The older split system had poor efficiency. Some of them were oversized for the room and lacked zoning
options.
The electrical switchboard had spare capacity to support a multi-split installation. For example, one
outdoor unit
with multiple indoor units for different zones.

Home Heating & Cooling Upgrade| The Step-by-Step Path

It’s well-known that the upgrade path usually involves replacing old systems with modern, energy-efficient solutions.

So, from gas to an energy-efficient electric system, let’s have a look at the upgrade story:

Choosing the right system

For the households that want to upgrade under the VEU air
conditioner rebate, we proposed a multi-split reverse-cycle system:

One efficient outdoor inverter unit connected to three indoor units

One in the main living area, one serving the upstairs bedrooms, and

One for the downstairs zone, which had very little heating or cooling.

Going multi-split provides flexibility: you only run the zones you need, resulting in lower energy
consumption.

However, in Victoria, Cyanergy is a renowned company that handles design, quoting, installation, and also guides
families through rebate
eligibility.

Decommissioning the old gas ducted heater

As part of eligibility for the VEU discount, the existing gas heater needed to be decommissioned in most cases.

This involves removing the system or disconnecting the ducted unit from the gas supply, following proper procedures
and obtaining certification, and utilizing expert installers.

Installation Process & Timing Period

Initially, after checking the eligibility, apply for the quotes.

The quote needs to be accepted and dated.

Then the installers will remove the old ducted heater, seal off the vents, and remove or disconnect the gas
appliance.

The outdoor inverter unit should be mounted externally in these households. The indoor units need to be
installed in each zone, minimising the intrusion of ductwork and piping.

The wiring and electrical breaker must be upgraded as needed.

The system will then be commissioned, and the necessary documentation will be submitted to the accredited provider for the VEU scheme.

Choosing efficiency over just cooling

Rather than improving just cooling, the Victorian households treated the upgrade as a heating & cooling renovation, switching to a system that uses electricity rather than gas.

Modern inverter systems are more efficient, as they modulate their output, offer better zoning, and can both heat and cool, allowing you to enjoy both winter comfort and summer cooling in one system.

At Cyanergy, we emphasise this home upgrade path:

“Efficient and Eco-Friendly Electric Multi-Split Air Conditioner. Take advantage of up to $7,200 in Victorian Government Energy Upgrade incentives, save big this winter on your gas bill.”

Out-of-pocket and rebate

Here is recent data from the average estimation for a household from the aircon rebate case study in Victoria.

In the quotation, the family had an installation cost of approximately $8,000 for the new multi-split system, including the decommissioning.

The VEU discount for gas-ducted to multi-split upgrades in Victoria was approximately $2,500.

So, their net out-of-pocket cost was ($8,000 – $2,500), which is approx $5,500.

How to Apply for the VEU Rebate: Are You Eligible?

The Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program provides rebates for eligible energy-efficient upgrades such as
installing a high-efficiency reverse-cycle air conditioner to replace an older heating or cooling system.

Before we discuss how
the rebate works, here are the eligibility criteria.

So, to qualify under the VEU program:

The property must be more than two years old.
The existing heating or cooling system must be removed or replaced.
The new system must be an eligible high-efficiency reverse-cycle unit installed by an accredited
provider.

How the Rebate Works

In this case, the quote from Cyanergy already included the VEU discount, meaning the price shown was the net cost
after applying the rebate allocated to the installer.

After installation:

The accredited provider registers the upgrade with the VEU program.
They create and claim Victorian Energy Efficiency Certificates (VEECs) for the upgrade.
The value of those certificates is passed on to the customer as an instant discount on the invoice.

The homeowner simply has to:

Signs off that the old system was removed or decommissioned.
Provides any required evidence or documentation, like serial numbers or photos.

The Result

The rebate is applied instantly at the point of installation, reducing the upfront cost — no need for the homeowner
to submit a separate claim.

Why is the VEU rebate significant?

Rebates like this make a big difference in the decision-making process. As the website says:

On average, households that upgrade
can save between $120 and $1,100 per year on their energy bills.

Additionally, the government factsheet notes that households can save between $120 and over $1,000 annually,
depending on the type of system and upgrade.

Thus, the rebate reduces the payback period, making the system more widely available.

Energy Bill Before vs After: See the Savings!

Here’s where the real story says: the household’s actual bills before and after the upgrade.

Before Adding Air Conditioning System

Ducted gas heating and an older split system.
In Victoria during winter months, the average monthly gas cost is approximately $125, and for electricity,
and other supplementary costs, an additional $30. So roughly $155 per winter month. Therefore, over the
course of four months, the price can reach nearly $620.
In summer cooling months, if their older split system ran for 2 hours per day, for example, from May to
October, it would cost around $50 per month. Over the 6 months, it will be, $300.
Total annual heating and cooling cost is approximately $920

After Adding the Air Conditioning System

Household that installed a Multi-split reverse-cycle system.
During the winter months, running the zones efficiently and utilizing the inverter system resulted in a
decrease in heating electricity costs.

Let’s say the average is around $70 per month over four months, totaling approximately $280.

In the summer months, efficient cooling costs approximately $30 per month over six months, totaling around
$180.
So, the annual heating
and cooling cost is approximately $460.

Net Savings

Annual savings: $920 (before) – $460 (after) = $460 per year.

At that rate, the upgrade pays for itself in net savings and an upfront rebate.

However, as they also removed gas connection fees and standing charges, improving comfort, therefore, the “effective”
savings were perceived to be higher, around $1,200 in the first year with the air conditioning upgrade.

This figure also includes avoided gas standing charges of $150, lower maintenance costs of the old system, and
improved efficiency.

Maximising Your Savings| Key Insights from the VEU Rebate Program

Based on the case study and Cyanergy’s experience, here are some lessons and actionable tips for homeowners
considering an upgrade.

Don’t wait until your system dies.

Replace outdated or inefficient gas or electric resistance systems immediately. Once the system starts
failing, you
may have fewer options or higher installation disruption.

Choose a provider who handles the rebates.

Dealing with the rebate or discount component (VEU) on your own adds complexity, like documentation,
compliance, and
installation. So look for an accredited provider.

Understand the actual savings potential.

It’s not just the rebate amount; consider running costs, efficiency improvements, zoning, and the ability to
heat and
cool.

Ensure proper sizing and zone control.

As many families discovered, the benefit came from zoning: you only heat and cool rooms you use. Oversized
units or
whole-home heating can reduce savings.

Factor in non-energy benefits.

Better comfort, for example, quieter systems and more consistent temperatures, as well as the removal of gas
standing
charges, less
maintenance, and improved resale appeal for eco-conscious buyers, all benefit you.

Check the accreditation and compliance.

With rebate programs, there’s always a risk of non-compliant installations or companies that don’t follow
through.

So, do your homework: check that the installer is accredited for VEU, ask for references, and ensure that the
documentation is completed appropriately.

Request detailed quotes that include estimates for both “before rebate” and “after rebate”
costs.

This helps you see how much you’re actually paying, the discount you receive, and ensures transparency. The
rebate is
not always the full difference; minimum contribution rules apply.

Monitor your bills after installation.

Keep track of your energy bills (gas & electricity) before and after for at least 12 months. This will
indicate
whether the savings are as expected and aid in budgeting.

Be realistic about pay-back

Although the rebate helps upfront, large systems still cost thousands of dollars. Don’t expect payback in one
or two
years (unless you have extreme usage).

However, with a well-designed system, rebates, and efficiency gains, a payback of 5-10 years or better is
possible,
depending on usage.

Final Notes

This aircon rebate case study illustrates the VEU saving. By working with Cyanergy Australia, households transformed a traditional, inefficient gas-ducted heating and older split cooling system into a modern, efficient, zone-controlled multi-split reverse-cycle air-conditioning system.

This was made more affordable through the VEU scheme discount.

The result? A net cost of around $5,500, improved comfort, and savings of approximately $1,200 in the first year.

This real-world “VEU saving example” shows that:

Rebates matter as they make the upgrade financially viable.
Efficiency matters as modern multi-split reverse-cycle systems deliver lower running costs.
Removing inefficient gas heating can unlock significant savings.
A reliable installer who navigates the rebate process effectively is crucial.

So, if you are looking for an accredited provider in Australia, Cyanergy is here to help!

Contact us today to receive a free solar quote. We will handle all your paperwork to ensure a fast and smooth installation process.

Your Solution Is Just a Click Away

The post How Households Saved $1,200 with VEU & Air-Con Upgrade? appeared first on Cyanergy.

How Households Saved $1,200 with VEU & Air-Con Upgrade?

Renewable Energy

Air Power

Published

1 day ago

November 28, 2025

Alice Rush

About 20 years ago, a friend asked me if I was aware that cars could run on air. I asked, delicately, what she meant, and she explained that cars can run on compressed air.

“Ah,” I replied. “Of course they can. But where does the energy come from that compresses the air?” End of conversation.

Now, it’s back. Now there are enormous swaths of the population who know so little about middle school science that they believe we can put cars on the road, in an ocean of air, and extract energy out of that air to power our automobiles.

If you’re among these morons and want to invest with some heavy-duty fraud/charlatans, here’s your opportunity. They say that it’s “self-sustaining and needs no fuel.” If that makes sense to you, be my guest.