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SPIE Proceedings Vol. 3349 Observatory Operations to Optimize Scientific ReturnEditor(s): Peter J. Quinn, European Southern Observatory, Garching bei Munchen, Germany.ISBN: 0-8194-2796-9, 490 pages Published 1998 Abstracts for the papers in this volume are located in this file immediately following the contents list below. All papers are published by SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering, P.O. Box 10, Bellingham, Washington, 98227-0010, USA. Ordering InformationSPIE Web offers complete online purchasing for any SPIE volume or individual Proceedings paper. To purchase online, use the convenient online order form. You may also order books or individual papers by telephone, fax, or e-mail:
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Contents
* VLT Data Flow System: from concepts to operations (Paper #:
3349-01)
* Data Flow System operations: from the NTT to the VLT (Paper #:
3349-02)
* Applying the lessons learned from HST operations to new missions
(Paper #: 3349-03)
* Improvements to science operations at Kitt Peak National
Observatory (Paper #: 3349-64)
* WIYN queue: theory meets reality (Paper #: 3349-05)
* Hobby-Eberly Telescope: commissioning experience and observing
plans (Paper #: 3349-06)
* User support: lessons learned from HST (Paper #: 3349-07)
* Gemini Observatory science operations plan (Paper #: 3349-08)
* Results of the UKIRT reactive scheduling experiment (Paper #:
3349-09)
* Electronic submission of HST Phase I proposals (Paper #:
3349-10)
* Testing and distribution of the RPS2 proposal submission system
(Paper #: 3349-11)
* Support tools for the VLT operations: the NTT prototyping
experience (Paper #: 3349-12)
* Infrastructure of the Gemini Observatory control system (Paper
#: 3349-13)
* ISOPHOT far-infrared serendipity sky survey (Paper #: 3349-48)
* Submillimeter flexible scheduling with the JCMT (Paper #:
3349-15)
* Proposal solicitation and selection for the 21st century (Paper
#: 3349-16)
* Scheduling and executing Phase II observing scripts on the
Hobby-Eberly Telescope (Paper #: 3349-17)
* MACHO data pipeline (Paper #: 3349-18)
* Near-real-time speckle imaging for optimization of observing
parameters (Paper #: 3349-19)
* Prototype of distributed analysis software hierarchy for the
Subaru Telescope (Paper #: 3349-20)
* Observing control and data reduction at the UKIRT (Paper #:
3349-21)
* Data and command flow among instruments, observation controller,
and data archiver (Paper #: 3349-22)
* WISP: the CFHT wide-field imaging symbiotic program (Paper #:
3349-45)
* Data quality control and instrument modeling (Paper #: 3349-24)
* New design for the Hubble Space Telescope calibration database
(Paper #: 3349-25)
* Service observing and data quality control: some lessons learned
from the Hubble Space Telescope (Paper #: 3349-26)
* Advances in the archiving and distribution facilities at the
Space Telescope Science Institute (Paper #: 3349-27)
* VLT science archive system (Paper #: 3349-28)
* Data archive and database system of the Subaru Telescope (Paper
#: 3349-29)
* Distributed hierarchical storage system of terabyte access for
the Subaru Telescope (Paper #: 3349-30)
* Holistic approach to data management at the Issac Newton Group
(Paper #: 3349-31)
* Large astronomical catalog management for telescope operations
(Paper #: 3349-33)
* Greedy search algorithm used in the automated scheduling of
Hubble Space Telescope activities (Paper #: 3349-34)
* JCMT remote operations feasibility study (Paper #: 3349-35)
* New database for nighttime programs at the National Optical
Astronomy Observatories (Paper #: 3349-37)
* FIRST ground segment and science operations concept (Paper #:
3349-38)
* SABIO: new system for telescope full scheduling and queue
operation to be implemented at the Observatorio de El Teide
(Paper #: 3349-39)
* Interactive online archive for short-period variable stars
(Paper #: 3349-40)
* Engineering a global network of astronomical telescopes (Paper
#: 3349-43)
* Integrated logistic support applied to the GTC maintenance and
operations (Paper #: 3349-44)
* Life-enhancement possibilites of trend analysis (Paper #:
3349-46)
* Automatic data processing and quality control: experiences from
ISO-LWS (Paper #: 3349-47)
* Gemini Phase 1 science proposal entry tool (Paper #: 3349-49)
* Support capability requirements of 8-m-telescope science (Paper
#: 3349-50)
* Observing proposals on the Web at the National Optical Astronomy
Observatories (Paper #: 3349-51)
* Querying the calibration database for the Hubble Space Telescope
using the Internet and the World Wide Web (Paper #: 3349-52)
* Solar system geometry and ephemeris processing for the HST
(Paper #: 3349-53)
* OPUS: the FUSE science data pipeline (Paper #: 3349-54)
* Observation data set of the Subaru observation software system
(Paper #: 3349-55)
* Observation control system for the Subaru Telescope and its user
interface (Paper #: 3349-56)
* Flexible observing modes employed at the WIYN Observatory (Paper
#: 3349-57)
* Visualization tools to support proposal submission (Paper #:
3349-60)
* Expert assistant system to support the general observer program
for NGST (Paper #: 3349-61)
* High-altitude medical and operations problems and solutions for
the Millimeter Array (Paper #: 3349-63)
* Apache Point Observatory 3.5-m telescope: operational design and
issues (Paper #: 3349-65)
Abstracts:
Paper #: 3349-01
VLT Data Flow System: from concepts to operations, pp.2-9
Author(s): Peter J. Quinn, European Southern Observatory,
Garching bei Munchen, Germany;
Miguel A. Albrecht, European Southern Observatory,
Garching Munchen, Germany;
Pascal Ballester, European Southern Observatory,
Garching, Germany;
Klaus Banse, European Southern Observatory,
Garching, Germany;
Alberto M. Chavan, European Southern Observatory,
Garching, Germany;
Preben Grosbol, European Southern Observatory,
Garching, Germany;
Michele Peron, European Southern Observatory,
Garching, Germany;
David R. Silva, European Southern Observatory,
Garching bei Muenchen, Germany.
Abstract: In order to realize the optimal scientific return from
the VLT, ESO has undertaken to develop an end-to-end
data flow system from proposal entry to science
archive. The VLT Data Flow System (DFS) is being
designed and implemented by the ESO Data Management and
Operations Division in collaboration with VLT and
Instrumentation Divisions. Tests of the DFS started in
October 1996 on ESO's New Technology Telescope. Since
then, prototypes of the Phase 2 Proposal Entry System,
VLT Control System Interface, Data Pipelines, On-line
Data Archive, Data Quality Control and Science Archive
System have been tested. Several major DFS components
have been run under operational conditions since
February 1997. This paper describes the current status
of the VLT DFS, the technological and operational
challenges of such a system and the planing for VLT
operations beginning in early 1999. !6
Paper #: 3349-02
Data Flow System operations: from the NTT to the VLT, pp.10-19
Author(s): David R. Silva, European Southern Observatory,
Garching bei Muenchen, Germany;
Bruno Leibundgut, European Southern Observatory,
Garching, Germany;
Peter J. Quinn, European Southern Observatory,
Garching bei Munchen, Germany;
Jason Spyromilio, European Southern Observatory,
Garching, Germany;
Massimo Tarenghi, European Southern Observatory,
Garching bei Muenchen, Germany.
Abstract: Science operations at the ESO very large telescope is
scheduled to begin in April 1999. ESO is currently
finalizing the VLT science operations plan. This plan
describes the operations tasks and staffing needed to
support both visitor and service mode operations. The
Data Flow Systems (DFS) currently being developed by
ESO will provide the infrastructure necessary for VLT
science operations. This paper describes the current
VLT science operations plan, first by discussing the
tasks involved and then by describing the operations
teams that have responsibility for those tasks.
Prototypes of many of these operational concepts and
tools have been in use at the ESO New Technology
Telescope (NTT) since February 1997. This paper briefly
summarizes the status of these prototypes and then
discusses what operation lessons have been learned from
the NTT experience and how they can be applied to the
VLT. !8
Paper #: 3349-03
Applying the lessons learned from HST operations to new missions,
pp.20-29
Author(s): Glenn E. Miller, Space Telescope Science Institute,
Baltimore, MD, USA;
Peg Stanley, Space Telescope Science Institute,
Baltimore, MD, USA.
Abstract: In order to use the next generation of space and ground
based observatories for the greatest scientific
benefit, the experiences of current missions should be
carefully examined to find strategies which have worked
well and also to identify areas where new paradigms are
needed. With the operation of the Hubble Space
Telescope, the Space Telescope Science Institute
pioneered the large scale application of
non-traditional operations models including observation
preparation tools, integrated scheduling for increased
scientific return, service observing, and multi-year
long- range planning. This paper discusses the key
aspects of HST operations, including concepts which
worked well and those which did not. We discuss how
this experience can be applied to new ground- and
space-based missions. !12
Paper #: 3349-64
Improvements to science operations at Kitt Peak National
Observatory, pp.30-40
Author(s): Bruce Bohannan, Kitt Peak National Observatory,
Tucson, AZ, USA.
Abstract: In recent years Kitt Peak National Observatory has
undertaken a number of innovative projects to optimize
science operations with the suite of telescopes we
operate on Kitt Peak, Arizona. Changing scientific
requirements and expectations of our users, evolving
technology and declining budgets have motivated the
changes. The operations improvements have included
telescope performance enhancements - with the focus on
the Mayall 4-m - modes of observing and scheduling,
telescope control and observing systems, planning and
communication, and data archiving. !4
Paper #: 3349-05
WIYN queue: theory meets reality, pp.41-49
Author(s): Todd A. Boroson,
National Optical Astronomy Observatories, Tucson,
AZ, USA;
Dianne L. Harmer,
National Optical Astronomy Observatories, Tucson,
AZ, USA;
A.Saha, National Optical Astronomy Observatories,
Tucson, AZ, USA;
Paul S. Smith,
National Optical Astronomy Observatories, Tucson,
AZ, USA;
Daryl W. Willmarth,
National Optical Astronomy Observatories, Tucson,
AZ, USA;
David R. Silva, European Southern Observatory,
Garching bei Muenchen, Germany.
Abstract: During the past two years NOAO has conducted a queue
observing experiment with the 3.5m WIYN telescope on
Kitt Peak, Arizona. The WIYN telescope is ideally
suited to queue-scheduled operation in terms of its
performance and its instrument complement. The queue
scheduling experiment on WIYN was designed to test a
number of beliefs and hypotheses about gains in
efficiency and scientific effectiveness due to queue
scheduling. In addition, the experiment was a test of
our implementation strategy and management of community
expectations. The queue is run according to a set of
rules that guide decisions about which observation to
do next. In practice, scientific rank, suitability of
current conditions, and the desire to complete programs
all enter into these decisions. As predicted by Monte
Carlo simulations, the queue increases the overall
efficiency of the telescope, particularly for
observations requiring rare conditions. Together with
this improvement for typical programs, the queue
enables synoptic, target-of-opportunity, and short
programs that could not be scheduled classically.
Despite this success, a number of sociological issues
determine the community's perception of the WIYN queue.
!1
Paper #: 3349-06
Hobby-Eberly Telescope: commissioning experience and observing
plans, pp.50-54
Author(s): John W. Glaspey, McDonald Observatory, Ft. Davis,
TX, USA;
M.T. Adams, McDonald Observatory, Ft. Davis, TX,
USA;
John A. Booth, McDonald Observatory, Austin, TX,
USA;
Mark E. Cornell, McDonald Observatory, Austin, TX,
USA;
James R. Fowler, McDonald Observatory, Ft. Davis,
TX, USA;
Victor L. Krabbendam, McDonald Observatory, Austin,
TX, USA;
Lawrence W. Ramsey, The Pennsylvania State Univ.,
University Park, PA, USA;
Frank B. Ray, McDonald Observatory, Austin, TX, USA;
Randall L. Ricklefs, McDonald Observatory, Austin,
TX, USA;
W.J. Spiesman, McDonald Observatory, Austin, TX,
USA.
Abstract: Experience in bringing into operation the 91-segment
primary mirror alignment and control system, the focal
plane tracker system, and other critical subsystems of
the HET will be described. Particular attention is
given to the tracker, which utilizes three linear and
three rotational degrees of freedom to follow sidereal
targets. Coarse time-dependent functions for each axis
are downloaded to autonomous PMAC controllers that
provide the precise motion drives to the two linear
stages and the hexapod system. Experience gained in
aligning the sperate mirrors and then maintaining image
quality in a variable thermal environments will also be
described. Because of the fixed elevation of the
primary optical axis, only a limited amount of time is
available for observing objects in the 12 degrees wide
observing band. With a small core HET team working with
McDonald Observatory staff, efficient, reliable,
uncomplicated methodologies are required in all aspects
of the observing operations. !8
Paper #: 3349-07
User support: lessons learned from HST, pp.55-62
Author(s): Christopher P. O'Dea,
Space Telescope Science Institute, Baltimore, MD,
USA;
Karla A. Peterson,
Space Telescope Science Institute, Baltimore, MD,
USA;
Anuradha Koratkar,
Space Telescope Science Institute, Baltimore, MD,
USA.
Abstract: The goal of STScI's user support is to provide HST
observers with the tools, documentation and assistance
they need to maximize the scientific return of their
observations. This includes pre-observing support to
design feasible observing programs which meet their
scientific goals and post- observing support in the
calibration, reduction, and analysis of the data. The
current model for user support evolved over the first
five years of HST operations and culminated in our
contact scientist (CS) and program coordinator (PC)
team. The CS is a professional astronomer as well as an
instrument scientific for one of the HST instruments.
The PC provides technical support as an expert in the
language and tools of HST observation specification,
implementation and scheduling. The underlying
philosophy is that (1) the CS/PC team supports the
observer from 'cradle to grave' of the observation and
(2) the team is a 'single point of contact' for the
observer. This means the observer can contact the CS/PC
team during any phase in the life cycle of an HST
program to receive assistance. It also ensure that the
use obtains help from the two people at STScI who are
the most familiar with the program, without being
shuffled among many different experts. The STScI help
desk provides parallel support for requests which do
not deal with a given HST program. Requests are
received, tracked, and assigned to the appropriate
expert for reply. Our holistic approach combines CS/PC
support with documentation, software and tools, and the
help desk to create ann efficient and powerful support
structure for observers. !0
Paper #: 3349-08
Gemini Observatory science operations plan, pp.63-74
Author(s): Phil J. Puxley, Gemini 8-m Telescopes Project,
Tucson, AZ, USA;
Fred C. Gillett, Gemini 8-m Telescopes Project,
Tucson, AZ, USA;
C. Matt Mountain, Gemini 8-m Telescopes Project,
Tucson, AZ, USA;
Douglas A. Simons, Gemini 8-m Telescopes Project,
Hilo, HI, USA.
Abstract: We review the Gemini Observatory science operations
plan including the proposal submission, allocation and
observation planning processes; the telescope operation
model; and the scientific staffing plans and user
support. Use of the telescope is shown via a
sub-stellar companion search program to illustrate the
planning tools and level of integration required
between the observatory control, telescope control and
data handling software systems. !7
Paper #: 3349-09
Results of the UKIRT reactive scheduling experiment, pp.76-79
Author(s): John K. Davies, Joint Astronomy Ctr., Hilo, HI, USA.
Abstract: Presented are some conclusions from the UKIRT reactive
scheduling experiment. This shows that, provided
adequate back-up time is available, it is possible to
manipulate the schedule of a 4m class telescope to
increase significantly the likelihood that a few chosen
programs can be completed and that such a scheme can
double the success rate of those programs. Also,
despite the personal inconvenience, observers are
willing to be flexible when offered a second chance to
take up observing time lost in bad weather. !1
Paper #: 3349-10
Electronic submission of HST Phase I proposals, pp.80-88
Author(s): Brett S. Blacker, Space Telescope Science Institute,
Baltimore, MD, USA;
Glenn E. Miller, Space Telescope Science Institute,
Baltimore, MD, USA;
C. Megan Urry, Space Telescope Science Institute,
Baltimore, MD, USA;
Harry E. Payne, Space Telescope Science Institute,
Baltimore, MD, USA;
Drew J. Asson, Community of Science, Inc.,
Baltimore, MD, USA.
Abstract: As institutions and observatories are required to
handle more tasks with fewer resources, the need to
assist or automate some of the processing becomes
crucial. One of the easiest tasks to automate is the
front-end process of requesting to use the telescope.
Proposing for Hubble Space Telescope (HST) observing
time and archival research proceeds to two phases: in
Phase I, the scientific merits of the proposal are
considered, and only accepted proposals enter Phase II,
where the observations are specified in complete
detail. The HST Phase I process includes obtaining,
completing, and submitting proposal forms. The
automation includes making the proposal forms
available, and allowing them to be submitted
electronically. By providing a standard proposal form,
the necessary information contained in the proposal is
extracted and processed by software. Tracking and
low-level error detection can be handled with software,
while more intellectually challenging tasks are handled
by people. This paper discusses the current system for
Phase I proposers to use the HST, including some of the
tools available for automating a proposal submission
process. This paper is an update of the system
described in the published paper 'Computer-assisted
Proposal Submission Systems'. This system has been in
use for the past three HST cycles and is being used for
the most current call for proposals. !11
Paper #: 3349-11
Testing and distribution of the RPS2 proposal submission system,
pp.89-96
Author(s): Robert E. Douglas, Jr.,
Space Telescope Science Institute, Baltimore, MD,
USA.
Abstract: In 1995, the Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI)
introduced RPS2 (Remote Proposal Submission 2). RPS2 is
used by Hubble Space TElescope (HST) proposers to
prepare their detailed observation descriptions. It is
a client/server system implemented using Tcl/Tk. The
client can transparently access servers on the user's
machine, at STScI, or on any other machine on the
Internet. The servers combine syntax checking,
feasibility analysis and orbit packing, and constraint
and schedulability analysis of user- specified
proposals as they will be performed aboard HST. Prior
to the release of RPS2, observers used a system which
provided only syntax checking. RPS2 now provides the
observers with some of the more complicated pieces of
software that had been used by STScI staff to prepare
observations since 1990. The RPS2 system consists of
four independent subsystem, controlled by the
client/server mechanism. A problem with a system of
this size and complexity is that the software
components, which continue to grow and change with HST
itself, must continually be tested and distributed to
those who need it. In the past, it had been acceptable
to release the RPS2 software only once per observing
cycle, but it became apparent before the 1997 HST
Servicing Mission that multiple releases of RPS2 were
going to be required to support the new instruments.
This paper discusses how RPS2 and its component systems
are maintained, updated, tested, and distributed. !7
Paper #: 3349-12
Support tools for the VLT operations: the NTT prototyping
experience, pp.97-104
Author(s): Alberto M. Chavan, European Southern Observatory,
Garching, Germany;
Gino Giannone, SERCO GmbH, Garching, Germany;
David R. Silva, European Southern Observatory,
Garching bei Muenchen, Germany;
Anthony P. Krueger,
Space Telescope Science Institute, Baltimore, MD,
USA;
Glenn E. Miller, Space Telescope Science Institute,
Baltimore, MD, USA.
Abstract: One of the most important design goals of the ESO very
large telescope is efficiency of operations, to
maximize the scientific productivity of the
observatory. 'Service mode' observations will take up a
significant fraction of the VLT's time, with the goal
of matching the best observing conditions to the most
demanding scientific programs. Such an operational
scheme requires extensive computer support in the area
of observation preparation and execution. In this paper
we present some of the software tools developed at ESO
to support VLT observers, both staff and external. Our
phase II proposal preparation system and the
operational toolkit are prototype implementations of
the final VLT systems and have been in use for over a
year, while the scheduling tools to support 'service
mode' operations. !4
Paper #: 3349-13
Infrastructure of the Gemini Observatory control system,
pp.105-114
Author(s): Kim K. Gillies, Gemini 8-m Telescopes Project,
Tucson, AZ, USA;
Shane Walker, Gemini 8-m Telescopes Project, Tucson,
AZ, USA.
Abstract: Construction of the first Gemini 8-m telescope is well
underway. The software that provides the user interface
and high-level control of the observatory, the
observatory control system (OCS), is also proceeding on
track. The OCS provides tools that assist the
astronomer from the proposal submission phase through
planning, observation execution, and data review. A
capable and flexible software infrastructure is
required to support this comprehensive approach. New
software technologies and industry standards have
played a large part in the implementation of this
infrastructure. For instance, the use of CORBA has
provided many benefits in the software including object
distribution, an interface definition language, and
implementation language independence. In this paper, we
describe the infrastructure of the OCS that supports
observation planning and execution. Important software
decisions and interfaces that allow Internet access and
the ability to substitute alternate implementations
easily are discussed as a model for other similar
projects. !5
Paper #: 3349-48
ISOPHOT far-infrared serendipity sky survey, pp.115-125
Author(s): Manfred Stickel,
Max-Planck-Institut fuer Astronomie, Heidelberg,
Germany;
Dietrich Lemke, Max-Planck-Institut fuer Astronomie,
Heidelberg, Germany;
Stefan Bogun,
Max-Planck-Institut fuer Astronomie and European Sout
hern Observatory, Heidelberg, Germany;
Ulrich Klaas,
Max-Planck-Institut fuer Astronomie and ISO Science O
perations Ctr., Madrid, Spain;
M.Kunkel, Max-Planck-Institut fuer Astronomie,
Heidelberg, Germany;
L.V. Toth,
Max-Planck-Institut fuer Astronomie and Lorand Eotvos
Univ., Heidelberg, Germany;
S.Hotzel, Max-Planck-Institut fuer Astronomie,
Heidelberg, Germany;
U.Herbstmeier, Max-Planck-Institut fuer Astronomie,
Heidelberg, Germany;
Martin F. Kessler, ISO Science Operations Ctr.,
Madrid, Spain;
Rene J. Laureijs, ISO Science Operations Ctr.,
Madrid, Spain;
Martin J. Burgdorf, ISO Science Operations Ctr.,
Madrid, Spain;
Charles A. Beichman, Jet Propulsion Lab., Pasadena,
CA, USA;
Michael Rowan-Robinson,
Imperial College of Science, Technology and Medicine,
London, United Kingdom;
A.Efstathiou,
Imperial College of Science, Technology and Medicine,
London, United Kingdom;
Gotthard Richter,
Astrophysikalisches Institut Potsdam, Potsdam,
Germany;
M.Braun, Astrophysikalisches Institut Potsdam,
Potsdam, Germany.
Abstract: The ISOPHOT Serendipity Survey utilizes the slew time
between ISO's pointed observations with strip scanning
measurements of the sky in the far-IR at 170 $mu@m. The
slews contain information about two fundamentally
different types of objects, namely unresolved galactic
and extragalactic far-IR sources as well as extended
regions of galactic cirrus emission. Since the
structure of the obtained data is almost unique, the
development of dedicated software to extract
astrophysically interesting parameters for the crossed
sources is mandatory. Data analysis is currently in its
early stages and concentrates on the detection of point
sources. First results from an investigation of a high
galactic latitude field near the North Galactic Pole
indicate that the detection completeness with respect
to previously known IRAS sources will be almost 100
percent for sources with f$-100$mu@m $GRT 2 Jy,
dropping below $APEQ 50 percent for f$-100$mu@m $LS 1.5
Jy. Nevertheless, even faint sources down to a level of
f$- 170$mu@m $APEQ 1 Jy can be detected. Since the
majority of the detected point sources are galaxies,
the Serendipity Survey will result in a large database
of $APEQ 2000 galaxies. !10
Paper #: 3349-15
Submillimeter flexible scheduling with the JCMT, pp.126-134
Author(s): Graeme D. Watt, Joint Astronomy Ctr., Hilo, HI, USA.
Abstract: The advent of SCUBA, and the imminent delivery of a new
state-of-the-art heterodyne receiver to operate in the
650 $mu@m and 450 $mu@m bands, indicate that the JCMT
is primarily being driven towards high-frequency
submillimeter observations. The number of applications
from the community requesting time using SCUBA has
already led to a large over- subscription for the
high-frequency submillimeter weather. Thus it has
become significantly more important, and timely to
experiment with flexible observations in order to
maintain the JCMTs status as one of the world's
submillimeter telescopes. It has been estimated
elsewhere that weather conditions appropriate for
efficient operation of these types of instruments in
their highest frequency modes occurs only about 30
percent of the time over Mauna Kea. Techniques for
predicting the water vapor content over the mountain,
and hence the sky opacity, would be extremely useful
and studies are in progress towards this goal. A brief
analysis of actual sky opacity records indicates that a
figure nearer 25 percent may be appropriate over the
past 3 years. There is evidence that certain
meteorological disturbances, such as the El Nino
effect, may result in an enhancement of the percentage
of extremely dry weather to around 40 percent. This
paper describes early attempts to flexibly schedule
high-frequency submillimeter observations on the JCMT.
Some of these schemes have met with more success than
others. In the light of past experiences, a
significantly different flexible queue-driven system
was implemented for the first observing semester using
SCUBA in an attempt to maximize the scientific return
achievable given the 'weather' available. Details are
presented of the operation and result obtained from
this highly successful scheme. A brief description is
also given of the currently running, slightly revised
version of the system. !0
Paper #: 3349-16
Proposal solicitation and selection for the 21st century,
pp.135-142
Author(s): Palle Moller, Space Telescope Science Institute,
Baltimore, MD, USA;
Glenn E. Miller, Space Telescope Science Institute,
Baltimore, MD, USA;
Brett S. Blacker, Space Telescope Science Institute,
Baltimore, MD, USA;
C. Megan Urry, Space Telescope Science Institute,
Baltimore, MD, USA.
Abstract: Writing, reviewing, and selecting the proposals which
are to define the science program of any
state-of-the-art observatory/space mission are all
tasks which have grown in complexity, and as a
consequence large amounts of time and effort are
currently being invested in this process by proposers
as well as reviewers. Viewed from the opposite vantage
point, the currently used solicitation and selection
process is a significant operational expense: mailing
paper copies of proposals and gathering reviewers for
panel meetings and a 'time allocation committee'
involves a large amount of logistical support and time
by the observatory staff. Finally, the batching of
proposals into yearly cycles increases the time form
concept of a scientific idea to receipt of actual data
which decreases the ability to respond to new
scientific developments and also increases the general
operational overhead of handling a large batch of
observations. In this paper we explore two experimental
steps towards an optimal proposal selection process:
streamlining the current process via 'paperless' and
'groupware' technologies, and use of a 'steady state'
process which accepts submission of the reviews
proposals continuously. The pros and cons of each
approach are examined and we demonstrate that not only
are the enabling technologies available, but when
resources are considered in a global manner we can
identify both major improvements to the current process
and significant reductions in the expenditure of
resources. !1
Paper #: 3349-17
Scheduling and executing Phase II observing scripts on the
Hobby-Eberly Telescope, pp.143-150
Author(s): Niall I. Gaffney, Hobby-Eberly Telescope, Austin,
TX, USA;
Mark E. Cornell, McDonald Observatory, Austin, TX,
USA.
Abstract: We describe our scheme for scheduling and observing
with the Hobby-Eberly Telescope (HET). The HET will be
operated 85 percent of the time in a queue-scheduled,
service observing mode. Principal investigators (PIs)
use software planning tools to determine how to make
their observations with the HET, and submit proposals
for telescope time to local Time Allocation Committees
(TACs). Once time has been granted, PIs submit detailed
observing scripts which instruct HET operations how,
when, and under what conditions data are to be taken.
These scripts are compiled into a relational database
which is used to schedule the telescope. Observations
are scheduled using TAC and PI-assigned priorities to
rank plans relative to ne another. Resident astronomers
use these priorities plus a set of simple precedence
rules to determine which objects are to be observed
each night. The execution of observation scripts is
mostly automated, with the software commanding the
telescope position and building data acquisition macros
for each instrument. Aside from building and running
the nightly observing queue, the resident astronomers
are responsible for identifying targets, starting
exposures, and validating data quality. They may also
revise the observing queue in real time as conditions
change. We discuss our initial experience working with
this system, scheduling and executing observations
during the commissioning of the HET. !8
Paper #: 3349-18
MACHO data pipeline, pp.152-164
Author(s): Timothy S. Axelrod,
Mt. Stromlo and Siding Springs Observatory,
Canberra, Australia;
R.A. Allsman, Australian National Univ.,
Canberra ACT, Australia;
Peter J. Quinn, European Southern Observatory,
Garching bei Munchen, Germany;
Charles R. Alcock, Lawrence Livermore National Lab.,
Livermore, CA, USA;
D.Alves, Lawrence Livermore National Lab.,
Livermore, CA, USA;
A.Becker, Univ. of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA;
D.P. Bennett, McMaster Univ., Hamiltone, ON, Canada;
Kenneth H. Cook, Lawrence Livermore National Lab.,
Livermore, CA, USA;
A.Drake, Mt. Stromlo and Siding Springs Observatory,
Canberra ACT, Australia;
K.C. Freeman,
Mt. Stromlo and Siding Springs Observatory,
Weston Creek, Australia;
Kim Griest, Univ. of California/San Diego, La Jolla,
CA, USA;
M.Lehner, Univ. of California/San Diego, La Jolla,
CA, USA;
Stuart L. Marshall,
Lawrence Livermore National Lab., La Jolla, CA, USA;
D.Minniti, Lawrence Livermore National Lab.,
Livermore, CA, USA;
Bruce A. Peterson,
Mt. Stromlo and Siding Springs Observatory,
Weston Creek ACT, Australia;
M.R. Pratt, Univ. of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA;
A.W. Rodgers,
Mt. Stromlo and Siding Springs Observatory, Weston,
Australia;
Christopher W. Stubbs, Univ. of Washington, Seattle,
WA, USA;
W.J. Sutherland, Oxford Univ., Oxford,
United Kingdom;
A.Tomaney, Univ. of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA;
T.Vandehei, Univ. of California/San Diego, La Jolla,
CA, USA;
D.Welch, McMaster Univ., Hamilton, ON, Canada.
Abstract: The MACHO experiment is searching for dark matter in
the halo of the Galaxy by monitoring more than 50
million stars in the LMC, SMC, and Galactic bulge for
gravitational microlensing events. The hardware
consists of a 50 inch telescope, a two-color 32
megapixel ccd camera and a network of computers. On
clear nights the system generates up to 8 GB of raw
data and 1 GB of reduced data. The computer system is
responsible for all realtime control tasks, for data
reduction, and for storing all data associated with
each observation in a database. The subject of this
paper is the software system that handles these
functions. It is an integrated system controlled by
Petri nets that consists of multiple processes
communicating via mailboxes and a bulletin board. The
system is highly automated, readily extensive, and
incorporates flexible error recovery capabilities. It
is implemented with C$PLU$PLU in a Unix environment.
!10
Paper #: 3349-19
Near-real-time speckle imaging for optimization of observing
parameters, pp.165-172
Author(s): Kathy J. Schulze, Schafer Corp., Georgetown, DE,
USA;
David W. Tyler, Schafer Corp., Albuquerque, NM, USA;
Bruce E. Stribling, Air Force Research Lab.,
Makawao, HI, USA.
Abstract: Abstract not available.
Paper #: 3349-20
Prototype of distributed analysis software hierarchy for the
Subaru Telescope, pp.173-183
Author(s): Yoshihiko Mizumoto,
National Astronomical Observatory of Japan,
Mitaka Tokyo, Japan;
Yoshihiro Chikada,
National Astronomical Observatory of Japan, Tokyo,
Japan;
George Kosugi,
Subaru Telescope/National Astronomical Observatory of
Japan, Hilo, HI, USA;
M.Yagi, National Astronomical Observatory of Japan,
Mitaka Tokyo, Japan;
Eiji Nishihara, Okayama Astrophysical Observatory,
Okayama, Japan;
Tadafumi Takata,
Subaru Telescope/National Astronomical Observatory of
Japan, Hilo, HI, USA;
Michitoshi Yoshida,
Okayama Astrophysical Observatory, Okayama, Japan;
Yasuhide Ishihara, Fujitsu Ltd., Mihama Chiba,
Japan;
Hiroshi Yanaka, Fujitsu Ltd., Mihama Chiba, Japan;
Yasuhiro Morita, SEC Co. Ltd., Tokyo, Japan;
Hiroyuki Nakamoto, SEC Co. Ltd., Shibuya Tokyo,
Japan.
Abstract: We are developing a data reduction and analysis system
DASH for efficient data processing of the SUBARU
telescope. We adopted CORBA as a distributed object
environment and Java for a user interface in the
prototype of DASH. Moreover, we introduced a data
reduction procedure cube as a kind of visual procedure
script. !8
Paper #: 3349-21
Observing control and data reduction at the UKIRT, pp.184-194
Author(s): Alan Bridger, Royal Observatory, Edinburgh,
United Kingdom;
Frossie Economou, Joint Astronomy Ctr., Hilo, HI,
USA;
Gillian S. Wright, Royal Observatory, Edinburgh,
United Kingdom;
Malcolm J. Currie, Royal Observatory, Hilo, HI, USA.
Abstract: For the past seven years observing with the major
instruments at the United Kingdom IR Telescope (UKIRT)
has been semi-automated, using ASCII files top
configure the instruments and then sequence a series of
exposures and telescope movements to acquire the data.
For one instrument automatic data reduction completes
the cycle. The emergence of recent software
technologies has suggested an evolution of this
successful system to provide a friendlier and more
powerful interface to observing at UKIRT. The
Observatory Reduction and Acquisition Control (ORAC)
project is now underway to construct this system. A key
aim of ORAC is to allow a more complete description of
the observing program, including the target sources and
the recipe that will be used to provide on-line data
reduction. Remote observation preparation and
submission will also be supported. In parallel the
observatory control system will be upgraded to use
these descriptions for more automatic observing, while
retaining the 'classical' interactive observing mode.
The final component of the project is an improved
automatic data reduction system, allowing on-line
reduction of data at the telescope while retaining the
flexibility to cope with changing observing techniques
and instruments. The user will also automatically be
provided with the scripts used for the real-time
reduction to help provide post-observing data reduction
support. The overall project goal is to improve the
scientific productivity of the telescope, but it should
also reduce the overall ongoing support requirements,
and has the eventual goal of supporting the use of
queue- scheduled observing. !11
Paper #: 3349-22
Data and command flow among instruments, observation controller,
and data archiver, pp.195-202
Author(s): Junichi Noumaru,
Subaru Telescope/National Astronomical Observatory of
Japan, Hilo, HI, USA;
Yoshihiko Mizumoto,
Subaru Telescope/National Astronomical Observatory of
Japan, Mitaka Tokyo, Japan;
Toshiyuki Sasaki,
Subaru Telescope/National Astronomical Observatory of
Japan, Hilo, HI, USA;
George Kosugi,
Subaru Telescope/National Astronomical Observatory of
Japan, Hilo, HI, USA;
Ryusuke Ogasawara,
Subaru Telescope/National Astronomical Observatory of
Japan, Hilo, HI, USA;
Jun A. Kawai, Fujitsu America, Inc., Chiba, Japan;
Yasuhiro Morita, SEC Co. Ltd., Tokyo, Japan;
Itsushi Akiyama, SEC Co. Ltd., Tokyo, Japan;
Yasutoshi Kusama, SEC Co. Ltd., Tokyo, Japan;
Shigeaki Iwai, AMSEC, Inc., Shibuya Tokyo, Japan;
Alan Fladmoe, Instrumental Inc., USA;
Masahiko Furuichi, Fujitsu America, Inc., USA.
Abstract: Subaru Observation Control System has selected Ethernet
and FiberChannel as their standard interface to
instruments. Every instrument should connect themselves
with at least one of the LANs. Regarding the data
transfer to Hilo base, the first concern is that no
data must be lost during transfer process, whatever
troubles may happen on hardware or network. In the
hardware, we provide RAID, tape library at the summit
and another RAID at the base facility. As the other
measure in software, we have the data file management
by Subaru Observation Software System, which enables
users to track the location of the file. The hardware
configuration of the summit simulation system, which is
for the instrument test and so on, is presented. The
telescope at the summit of Mauna Kea has been connected
to the super computer at the base facility via OC12.
This high-speed network is used not only data transfer
and IP communication, but also for multimedia
communication such as video or telephone. The
multimedia project is introduced. !7
Paper #: 3349-45
WISP: the CFHT wide-field imaging symbiotic program, pp.203-208
Author(s): Christian Veillet, Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope,
Kamuela, HI, USA.
Abstract: WISP, the wide-field imaging symbiotic program, is one
way of optimizing the scientific return from the
observations made using the CFHT 3.6-m telescope. Many
of the wide-field images, presently acquired with the
UH8k CCD mosaic camera, exhibit moving solar system
objects that are not studied by the observers, as they
are not part of their scientific programs. The main
goal of WISP is to extract from all these observations
the position and an estimate magnitude of the moving
objects in near real time, for each observing run where
the PI doesn't intend to study solar system objects,
gathering information which would have lost without
WISP. In order to achieve this goal, real time data
processing has been developed, making available the
morning following the observations the accurate
position of the asteroids detected to those interested
in following them. The data pipeline is facing
challenges, as the observations are not optimized for
this kind of search. But ultimately, the data gathered
from these observations will be useful to the study of
the asteroid population up to mg 23 to 24, and higher
with the next generation mosaics in development for
CFHT, in addition to the potential rapid detection of
interesting objects such as near Earth asteroids or
trans-Neptunian objects. !4
Paper #: 3349-24
Data quality control and instrument modeling, pp.209-217
Author(s): Pascal Ballester, European Southern Observatory,
Garching, Germany;
Michael R. Rosa,
Space Telescope European Coordinating Facility and Eu
ropean Space Agency, Garchin, Germany;
Preben Grosbol, European Southern Observatory,
Garching, Germany.
Abstract: Conducting service observing in large ground-based
observatories involves delivering standard products to
the user, as well as installing the mechanisms to
guarantee the proper execution of the observations and
the verification of the resulting data. This article
presents the quality control system of the very large
telescope. Levels of quality are defined, corresponding
to increasingly fundamental levels of verification of
the observation process performance. After a
presentation of the QC levels and their implementation
for the VLT, the paper discusses the usage of
instrument models. Indeed several developments make it
more practical today to efficiently use models in the
entire observational process. On the one hand, the
proposer can prepare observations exposure time
estimators and data simulators. On the other hand the
observatory can control the instrumental configuration,
test data analysis procedures, and provide calibration
solutions with the help of instrument models. The
article closes with a report on the instrument modeling
efforts for VLT and HST instruments. !9
Paper #: 3349-25
New design for the Hubble Space Telescope calibration database,
pp.218-223
Author(s): Colin R. Cox, Space Telescope Science Institute,
Baltimore, MD, USA;
Stephen Lubow, Space Telescope Science Institute,
Baltimore, MD, USA;
Calvin Tullos, Space Telescope Science Institute,
Baltimore, MD, USA.
Abstract: The Hubble Space Telescope Calibration Database System
collects and organizes data used in calibration of the
many operating modes of the on-board scientific
instruments. During the period form July 1995 to
January 1997 the calibration data base system underwent
a major redesign. The existing system had performed
well since 1990 but some shortcomings were becoming
apparent. The advent of two new science instruments,
one of which has a very large number of operational
modes, promised major complications. The new design
operates with far fewer database tables yet provides
extra functions. The tracking of replacement files has
been improved, the maintenance of documentation has
been simplified, and the process for installing data
automated and streamlined. Additionally, various
scripts have been written to perform checks on
currently installed and historic data. This has
resulted in a very efficient and reliable installation
process which accommodates the new instruments and
supports new data formats. It has also allowed us to
detect and correct some discrepancies in the existing
data that arose from occasional errors in the earlier
manual procedures. !2
Paper #: 3349-26
Service observing and data quality control: some lessons learned
from the Hubble Space Telescope, pp.224-234
Author(s): Anuradha Koratkar,
Space Telescope Science Institute, Baltimore, MD,
USA;
Ray Lucas, Space Telescope Science Institute,
Baltimore, MD, USA;
Stefano Casertano,
Space Telescope Science Institute, Baltimore, MD,
USA;
Megan Donahue, Space Telescope Science Institute,
Baltimore, MD, USA;
F.Abney, Space Telescope Science Institute,
Baltimore, MD, USA;
Glenn E. Miller, Space Telescope Science Institute,
Baltimore, MD, USA.
Abstract: Service mode observing simultaneously provides
convenience, observing efficiency, cost-savings, and
scheduling flexibility. To effectively optimize these
advantages, the observer must exactly specify an
observation with no real time interaction with the
observatory staff. In this respect, ground-based
service-mode observing and HST observing are similar.
There are numerous details which, if unspecified, are
either ambiguous or are left to chance, sometimes with
undesirable results. Minimization of
ambiguous/unspecified details is critical to the
success of both HST and ground-based service observing.
Smart observing proposal development tools which ave
built in flexibility are therefore essential for both
the proposer and the observatory staff. Calibration of
the science observations is also an important facet of
service observing. A centralized calibration process,
while resource-intensive to install and maintain, is
advantageous in several ways: it allows a more
efficient overall use of the telescope, guarantees a
standard quality of the observations, and makes
archival observations more easily usable, greatly
increasing the potential scientific return from the
observations. In order to maximize the scientific
results from an observatory in a service mode
operations model, the observatory needs to be committed
to performing a standard data quality evaluation on all
science observations to assist users in their data
evaluation and to provide data quality information to
the observatory archive. The data quality control
process at STScI adds value to the HST data and
associated data products through examination and
improvement of data processing, calibration, and
archiving functions. This functionality is provided by
a scientist who is familiar with the science goals of
the proposal and assists its development throughout,
from observation specification to the analysis of the
processed data. Finally, archiving is essential to good
service observing, because a good archive helps improve
observing efficiency by not allowing unnecessary
duplication of observations. !4
Paper #: 3349-27
Advances in the archiving and distribution facilities at the
Space Telescope Science Institute, pp.236-240
Author(s): Robert J. Hanisch,
Space Telescope Science Institute, Baltimore, MD,
USA;
Marc Postman, Space Telescope Science Institute,
Baltimore, MD, USA;
Joseph Pollizzi, Space Telescope Science Institute,
Baltimore, MD, USA;
J.Richon, Space Telescope Science Institute,
Baltimore, MD, USA.
Abstract: The Hubble Data Archive at the Space Telescope Science
Institute contains over 4.3 TB of data, primarily for
the Hubble Space Telescope, but also from complementary
space- based and ground-based facilities. We are in the
process of upgrading and generalizing many of the HDA's
component system, developing tools to provide more
integrated access to the HDA holdings, and working with
other major data providing organizations to implement
global data location services for astronomy and other
space science disciplines. This paper describes the key
elements of our archiving and data distribution
systems, including a planned transition to DVD media,
data compression, data segregation, on-the-fly
calibration, an engineering data warehouse, and
distributed search and retrieval facilities. !14
Paper #: 3349-28
VLT science archive system, pp.241-246
Author(s): Miguel A. Albrecht, European Southern Observatory,
Garching Munchen, Germany;
Elisbetta Angeloni, European Southern Observatory,
Garching b Munchen, Germany;
Alan Brighton, European Southern Observatory,
Garching b Munchen, Germany;
Fabio Sogni, European Southern Observatory,
Garching b Munchen, Germany;
Andreas J. Wicenec, European Southern Observatory,
Garching b Munchen, Germany;
Houri Ziaeepour, European Southern Observatory,
Garching b Munchen, Germany.
Abstract: The ESO very large telescope (VLT) will deliver a
science archive of astronomical observations well
exceeding the 80 Terabytes mark already within its
first six years of operations. ESO is undertaking the
design and development of both on-line and off-line
archive facilities. This paper reviews the current
planning and development state of the VLT science
archive project. !0
Paper #: 3349-29
Data archive and database system of the Subaru Telescope,
pp.247-254
Author(s): Tadafumi Takata,
Subaru Telescope/National Astronomical Observatory of
Japan, Hilo, HI, USA;
Ryusuke Ogasawara,
Subaru Telescope/National Astronomical Observatory of
Japan, Hilo, HI, USA;
Kenji Kawarai, Fujitsu America, Inc., Hilo, HI, USA;
Tadahiro Yamamoto, Fujitsu Ltd., Mihama-ku Chiba,
Japan.
Abstract: Subaru telescope is one of the largest ground-based
optical- IR telescope, and it will produce so large
amount of data on the universe. For secure data storage
and effective science output, we need very intelligent
data archive system. It includes keeping security for
observed data and providing user friendly environment
for science and engineering research. The most
important thing for data archive system for
ground-based telescope is how it can provide
understandable description about observation performed
and it provides user based tools for data searching
etc. We will report the status of our development and
the features of database environment in Subaru
telescope. !8
Paper #: 3349-30
Distributed hierarchical storage system of terabyte access for
the Subaru Telescope, pp.255-262
Author(s): Ryusuke Ogasawara,
Subaru Telescope/National Astronomical Observatory of
Japan, Hilo, HI, USA;
Yoshihiro Chikada,
Subaru Telescope/National Astronomical Observatory of
Japan, Tokyo, Japan;
Yoshihiko Mizumoto,
Subaru Telescope/National Astronomical Observatory of
Japan, Mitaka Tokyo, Japan;
George Kosugi,
Subaru Telescope/National Astronomical Observatory of
Japan, Hilo, HI, USA;
Toshiyuki Sasaki,
Subaru Telescope/National Astronomical Observatory of
Japan, Hilo, HI, USA;
Junichi Noumaru,
Subaru Telescope/National Astronomical Observatory of
Japan, Hilo, HI, USA;
Tadafumi Takata,
Subaru Telescope/National Astronomical Observatory of
Japan, Hilo, HI, USA;
Kenji Kawarai, Fujitsu America, Inc., Hilo, HI, USA.
Abstract: Subaru telescope of National Astronomical Observatory
of Japan is now under the commissioning phase, and
there will be installed seven powerful instruments to
produce several tens megabytes of data in each second
of observations. The total amount of the storage
necessary to keep those data becomes about 20TB per
year.Here we introduce a concept of the hierarchical
data storage system on the super computer system of
Hilo Base Facility of Subaru Telescope. Detailed
description of the computer system and performance
feature is also presented. The computer system is
useful for operation support based on advanced
information management database, called Subaru Data
Base. !7
Paper #: 3349-31
Holistic approach to data management at the Issac Newton Group,
pp.263-272
Author(s): James R. Lewis, Royal Greenwich Observatory,
Cambridge, United Kingdom;
Nicholas A. Walton, Isaac Newton Group,
Canary Islands, Spain.
Abstract: The Isaac Newton Group comprises three telescopes: the
4.2m William Herschel Telescope, the 2.5m Isaac Newton
Telescope, and the 1.0m Jacobus Kaptyen Telescope. The
operational capability of the ING has been increased by
integrating the fault reporting system with the
archiving of data. All data obtained from the telescope
are automatically archived and stored on-line in a 500
slot CDROM jukebox. The flexible image transport system
headers are stripped, stored in a Sybase database and
are available immediately for inspection via a
web-based user interface. Users have the option to save
files to disc for FTP download and display the data
using a standard image tool. After six months the
original data are sent from the ING to the RGO
Astronomy Data Center in Cambridge. The ING science
archive may be interrogated, and the data is available
for general download. The ING fault database is also
implemented as a Sybase database. In addition to
standard features, links can be made to individual data
files. These can be subsequently downloaded from the
archive on request. This system greatly aids in
ensuring the integrity of data obtained across the ING
telescopes and helps engineers when analyzing many
kinds of faults. Access to data on-line is being
exploited in automating the dissemination of data
obtained during service observing. Pipeline processed
data will also be integrated into the system. In order
to handle increased data flows with new larger CCD
arrays, a system based on high capacity DVD disks is
planned. !6
Paper #: 3349-33
Large astronomical catalog management for telescope operations,
pp.274-281
Author(s): Andrea Baruffolo, Astronomical Observatory of Padua,
Padova, Italy;
Leopoldo Benacchio,
Astronomical Observatory of Padua, Padova, Italy.
Abstract: Large astronomical catalogues containing from a million
up to hundreds of millions records are currently
available, even larger catalogues will be released in
the near future. They will have an important
operational role since they will be used throughout the
observing cycle of next generation large telescopes,
for proposal and observation preparation, telescope
scheduling, selection of guide stars, etc. These large
databases pose new problems for fast and general
access. Solutions based on custom software or on
customized versions of specific catalogues have been
proposed, but the problem will benefit from a more
general database approach. While traditional database
technologies have proven to be inadequate for this
task, new technologies are emerging, in particular that
of Object Relational DBMSs, that seem to be suitable to
solve the problem. In this paper we describe our
experiences in experimenting with ORDBMSs for the
management of large astronomical catalogues. We worked
especially on the database query language and access
methods. In the first field to extend the database
query language capabilities with astronomical
functionalities and to support typical astronomical
queries.In the second, to speed up the execution of
queries containing astronomical predicates. !15
Paper #: 3349-34
Greedy search algorithm used in the automated scheduling of
Hubble Space Telescope activities, pp.282-290
Author(s): Roberto J. Samson,
Space Telescope Science Institute, Baltimore, MD,
USA.
Abstract: This paper presents the greedy search technique used by
the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) Science Planning and
Scheduling System to automatically schedule HST
activities on weekly calendars. Given a set of possible
observations to schedule in a week, this technique
determines the best time ordering of observations which
would maximize the scheduling efficiency or total
science time in a calendar. The HST observation
constraints that strongly influence the search
heuristics and the process that produce HST flight
calendars are also described in detail. !5
Paper #: 3349-35
JCMT remote operations feasibility study, pp.291-300
Author(s): R. Justin S. Greenhalgh, Joint Astronomy Ctr., Hilo,
HI, USA;
Ian Pain, Joint Astronomy Ctr., Hilo, HI, USA.
Abstract: This study has looked at the technical implications of
switching the JCMT to a remote operations mode, taking
as a baseline the telescope being operated from Hilo
with no staff normally present on the summit during the
night. This study has not addressed observing modes,
staffing or their implications in terms of costs. There
is a potential show- stopper in that unless a good
fraction of the instruments can be made remotely
operable then any remote operation would be very
inflexible. To modify the instruments in this way would
require input from the same well-found labs that are
currently engaged in the instrumentation work for JCMT
and it is not clear that they could do both things at
once. If this problem could be overcome, the bottom
line conclusions are that at a level of work that we
considered to be reasonable: the upfront costs would be
some $LR 650k plus 17 direct staff years spread over 1
to 3 years, some of which would have to be in expert
instrumentation groups. There would be some extra lost
telescope time due to the delay in getting someone from
Hilo to fix a fault, which could roughly double
telescope down-time. This could be reduced by extra
initial investment. Long-term savings in accommodation,
vehicle and staffing costs would be significant. There
would also be efficiency gains because of the removal
of the '14000 ft effect', however these are hard to
quantify. !6
Paper #: 3349-37
New database for nighttime programs at the National Optical
Astronomy Observatories, pp.301-311
Author(s): Catherine A. Pilachowski,
National Optical Astronomy Observatories, Tucson,
AZ, USA;
Christa Brown,
National Optical Astronomy Observatories, Tucson,
AZ, USA.
Abstract: The National Optical Astronomy Observatories has
developed a new database system, ALPS, to track
proposals for telescope time from original receipt
through the review process, scheduling, observing, and
final statistical reporting. The database is written in
Microsoft Access, and is integrated with observatory
operations. Proposals arrive in a LATEX format and are
parsed into files suitable for import into Access using
a Perl script running under Unix. The database system
provides tools to support al activities associated with
handling proposals, including support for the Telescope
Allocation Committee through reviewer assignments,
grades imported via the Web, and comments for the
principal investigator. The telescope schedules are
prepared through a scheduling interface, and the final
schedule is posted automatically to the Web. Statistics
on telescope usage are collected via the Web and
imported into the database as well. The new database
has been in operation since March, 1997, for proposals
submitted for observing time at the Kitt Peak National
Observatory, and has been installed at Cerro Tololo
Interamerican Observatory as well. The program is
written to be easily adaptable for new facilities which
will be available through NOAO, including public access
to time at independent observatories and access to the
Gemini telescopes. !4
Paper #: 3349-38
FIRST ground segment and science operations concept, pp.312-318
Author(s): Otto H. Bauer,
Max-Planck-Institut fuer Extraterrestrische Physik,
Garching, Germany;
Pierre Estaria, European Space Agency/ESTEC,
Noordwijk, Netherlands;
Kenneth J. King, Rutherford Appleton Lab.,
Oxfordshire, United Kingdom;
Goeran L. Pilbratt, European Space Agency/ESTEC,
Noordwijk, Netherlands;
Andy Robson, European Space Agency/ESOC, Darmstadt,
Germany;
Peter R. Roelfsema,
SRON--Space Research Organization Netherlands,
Groningen, Netherlands;
Harm Schaap, European Space Agency/ESTEC, Noordwijk,
Netherlands.
Abstract: The Far InfraRed and Submillimeter Telescope (FIRST) is
the last of the four Cornerstone Missions in the
'Horizon 2000' long term science plan of the European
Space Agency (ESA) and as an observatory type mission
it will be open to the international astronomical
community. Its launch is presently foreseen for the end
of 2005. The nominal mission duration will be 4.5 years
and the active archive phase 3 years. Taking into
account the experience from other ESA missions and in
order to minimize costs, the ground segment for FIRST
scientific operations will be structured in a novel
'decentralized' way, creating centers of competence. !2
Paper #: 3349-39
SABIO: new system for telescope full scheduling and queue
operation to be implemented at the Observatorio de El Teide,
pp.319-324
Author(s): Francisco Garzon,
Instituto de Astrofisica de Canarias,
La Laguna Tenerife, Spain;
Maite Rozas, Instituto de Astrofisica de Canarias,
La Laguna Tenerife, Spain.
Abstract: SABIO is currently at the beginning of the
specification phase at the Instituto de Astrofisica de
Canarias (IAC). This system is aimed at providing full
control over the complete set of telescope operations,
ranging from tools for proposals submission and data
entry until the final scheduling during the
observations. SABIO will also manage the link between
the instrument and the telescope control system to
perform the step-by-step observation commands selected
between a list of available templates depending upon
the observing mode. It is intended that on-line
information about sky quality will be also provided to
SABIO in real time, which will then be used to adapt
the observing queue to the sky conditions. The project
is splitted into several parts which will be developed
wither in parallel or in sequence, depending on the
available resources. It is planned that SABIO will
initiate operation, in a preliminary beta version, by
the end of 1999, starting at the 1.5m Telescopio Carlos
Sanchez, at the Spanish Observatorio de El Teide, in
the Canarian Island of Tenerife. !0
Paper #: 3349-40
Interactive online archive for short-period variable stars,
pp.325-334
Author(s): Michael D. Joner, Brigham Young Univ., Provo, UT,
USA;
Eric G. Hintz, Brigham Young Univ., Provo, UT, USA.
Abstract: We report initial results from a project to design an
interactive on-line data archive for short-period
variable stars. Our goal is to provide an easily
accessible set of web pages for use by a researcher at
the telescope. The first step is to provide the
researcher with convenient access to data archives for
a variety of short-period variable stars. In addition
to the basic data archive, there is a page for each
star that contains positional information, the most
recent epoch and period data, basic physical
parameters, and a set of helpful journal references. We
also include a page for each of the program variables
with a finder chart and a selection of comparison stars
for use in differential photometry. Additionally, one
entry point in the system is a phase calculator that
will sort through the data and return a list of stars
that are observable from various user input locations
during a variety of time periods. The current system
has a partial data set in place for over one hundred
short-period variable stars. We intend to continue to
expand this set to include a large number of complete
data files. We are also considering a similar archive
of galaxy images for comparison use in student
conducted supernova searches. We find this system
improves the scientific return form our two small
telescopes at the West Mountain Observatory. We believe
this model can also be employed to optimize data
management and scientific return for a wide variety of
projects from the new generation of large ground-based
telescopes. !5
Paper #: 3349-43
Engineering a global network of astronomical telescopes,
pp.335-342
Author(s): Eric R. Craine,
Western Research Co., Inc., GNAT, Inc., and Colorado
State Univ., Tucson, AZ, USA;
David L. Crawford,
GNAT, Inc. and National Optical Astronomy Observatory
, Tucson, AZ, USA;
Patrick R. Craine,
GNAT, Inc. and Univ. of California/Berkeley,
Berkeley, CA, USA.
Abstract: The Global Network of Astronomical Telescopes (GNAT) is
anon-profit research corporation established for the
purpose of creating a longitudinally distributed
network of identical telescopes and imaging systems
which can be dedicated to a variety of astronomical
problems which require temporal observations, often at
high time frequency. The first telescopes in the
network will be imaging photometry system; later
telescopes will be equipped for spectrophotometry. The
network will be centrally scheduled and all of the
telescopes in the network will be operated
automatically under local host computer control. It is
intended that GNAT will serve research, education and
community outreach needs. In this paper we report on
the current status of development of the GNAT network.
!8
Paper #: 3349-44
Integrated logistic support applied to the GTC maintenance and
operations, pp.343-350
Author(s): Juan C. Gonzalez,
Instituto de Astrofisica de Canarias,
La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain.
Abstract: The support costs of a system during the operational
phase of its life-cycle represent a substantial part of
the total life-cycle cost. Also, the support costs
strongly depend on the decisions taken during the
initial stages of the system design. However,
traditionally many major systems have been developed
attending only to the criteria deriving from the main
functions of the system concerned. Questions related to
logistic support were taken into account a posteriori,
when the system was about to start the operational
phase. Hence, the life-cycle costs were much bigger
than initially foreseen, and at the same time, the
maintenance and operation of the system suffered from
inefficiency. This problem is further exacerbated as
the complexity of the system increases. In the light of
these considerations, it is obvious that the
development of the Gran Telescopio Canarias (GTC) has
to be considered as an integral concept that takes into
account not only the scientific but also the
logistic-support requirements. Such a compromise
requires logistic support to be considered at all the
phase of the life-cycle of the system, especially in
those design stages in which the main decisions
affecting the configuration of the system are taken.
This paper presents the integrated logistic support
(ILS) approach that will be followed to design the GTC
in such a way as to make it effectively and
economically supportable, as well as to develop the
necessary elements for supporting it. A goal is to
reach an optimum compromise between the cost of
designing the GTC, including the support elements, and
the cost of the support itself. Also, the
logistic-support analysis will lead to the plan for the
GTC operation and maintenance. !5
Paper #: 3349-46
Life-enhancement possibilites of trend analysis, pp.351-358
Author(s): Kenneth J. King, Rutherford Appleton Lab.,
Oxfordshire, United Kingdom;
J. David Ewart,
Rutherford Appleton Lab. and ISO Science Operations C
tr., Madrid, Spain;
D.Texier, ISO Science Operations Ctr., Madrid,
Spain.
Abstract: For successful, continued, operation of space-based
instruments over the lifetime of a satellite it is
common practice to put into place procedures to
identify, investigate and monitor long term trends in
the characteristic parameters of an instrument in order
to be able to take action before a failure of the
instrument or a subsystem occurs. With the advent of
more sophisticated instrumentation and the need for
efficient utilization of ground-based telescopes, there
is an increasing need to carry out this function as
part of the routine operations of ground based
observatories. This paper characterizes the types of
trend data that may be obtained during the lifetime of
an instrument and presents examples of such data taken
from the long wavelength spectrometer instrument
on-board the IR space observatory. The resulting
actions taken to minimize the possibility of failure of
subsystems and to maximize the scientific output from
the instrument will be discussed. !0
Paper #: 3349-47
Automatic data processing and quality control: experiences from
ISO-LWS, pp.359-367
Author(s): Martin J. Burgdorf, ISO Science Operations Ctr.,
Madrid, Spain;
A.S. Harwood, Rutherford Appleton Lab.,
Chilton, Didcot, United Kingdom;
N.R. Trams, ISO Science Operations Ctr., Madrid,
Spain;
Tanya L. Lim,
ISO Science Operations Ctr. and Univ. of London,
Madrid, Spain;
S.D. Sidher, Rutherford Appleton Lab.,
Chilton, Didcot, United Kingdom;
Bruce M. Swinyard, Rutherford Appleton Lab.,
Chilton Didcot Oxon, United Kingdom;
Peter E. Clegg, Univ. of London, London,
United Kingdom.
Abstract: The high level of automation in the operation of the
ESA Infrared Space Observatory, together with high
observing efficiency, leads to a requirement for a
commensurate level of automation in the subsequent
processing of the astronomical data. This inevitably
means that all data for a given instrument mode have
the same calibration applied, regardless of the exact
details of the object being observed. Questions then
arise about these 'pipeline processed' data in terms of
the calibration accuracy achieved; how to control the
quality of data received by the observer and how much
further processing is required - or desirable - by the
observer.In this paper we outline the experience of two
years of operation of the long wavelength spectrometer
on board ISO, detailing the improvements made in the
pipeline processing during this time and the
difficulties encountered in the automated processing of
some instrument modes. !9
Paper #: 3349-49
Gemini Phase 1 science proposal entry tool, pp.368-379
Author(s): Dayle Kotturi,
International Gemini 8-m Telescopes Project, Tucson,
AZ, USA.
Abstract: The new generation of 21st century 8m ground-based
telescopes requires a new model of proposal submission.
The proposal submission tool must be globally
accessible and provide an efficient mechanisms to
create a proposal and submit it for review. Global
accessibility is dependent on network availability and
connection time should be minimized to reduce this
dependency. The efficiency of the tool is optimized by
implementing checks which ensure that the proposal is
complete before it reaches the reviewers. This saves
the reviewers form having to contact the astronomer for
additional information and the astronomer is assured
that her/his proposal will not be rejected for its
incompleteness. The Gemini Phase 1 Science Proposal
Entry Tool is a platform-independent software program
which is downloaded from the web to reside on the
astronomer's local machine. During the creation of a
science proposal, no network connection is
required.Input is entered through a Graphical User
Interface (GUI) which consists of a series of pages.
The astronomer can, for the most part, page around the
GUI entering the information in any order. However, in
some case, data that determines what is displayed on
other pages must be entered before advancing to the
next page. Local saves and prints of the proposal can
be made at any time. Also, the tool can reload an
existing proposal so that the astronomer can work on a
proposal over several sittings. Completed pages are
indicated on a floating screen separate from the main
GUI. When the astronomer is ready to submit the
proposal, the file is verified for completeness. If
compete, it is submitted to the National Time
Allocation Committee via ftp. !3
Paper #: 3349-50
Support capability requirements of 8-m-telescope science,
pp.380-384
Author(s): Phil J. Puxley, Gemini 8-m Telescopes Project,
Tucson, AZ, USA;
Todd A. Boroson,
National Optical Astronomy Observatories, Tucson,
AZ, USA;
Patrick Roche, Oxford Univ., Oxford, United Kingdom;
Jean-Rene Roy, Univ. Laval, Laval, Quebec, Canada.
Abstract: Science workshops were held throughout the Gemini
partnership during the second half of 1997 with the
aims of identifying and quantifying the supporting
capabilities required to enhance the utility and
efficiency of the Gemini 8m telescopes. These
workshops, held separately in the US, UK, Canada and
South America, ensured representation programs were
considered in detail sufficient to understand the
requirements for their execution on Gemini as well as
for any preparatory observations. The desire for
wide-field optical and near-IR imaging was frequently
identified with an average of one-half to one night of
these survey observations per night of Gemini
follow-up. Two other common themes were high angular
resolution imaging and rapid response to
target-of-opportunity events. !0
Paper #: 3349-51
Observing proposals on the Web at the National Optical Astronomy
Observatories, pp.385-392
Author(s): Catherine A. Pilachowski,
National Optical Astronomy Observatories, Tucson,
AZ, USA;
Jeannette Barnes,
National Optical Astronomy Observatories, Tucson,
AZ, USA;
David J. Bell,
National Optical Astronomy Observatories, Tucson,
AZ, USA.
Abstract: Proposals for telescope time at facilities available
through the National Optical Astronomy Observatories
can now be prepared and submitted via the WWW.
Investigators submit proposal information through a
series of HTML forms to the NOAO server, where the
information is processed by Perl CGI scripts.
PostScript figures and ASCII files may be attached by
investigators for inclusion in their proposals using
their browser's upload feature. Proposal information is
saved on the server so that investigators can return in
later sessions to continue work on a proposal and so
that collaborators can participate in writing the
proposal if they have access to the proposal account
name and password. The system provides on-line
verification of LATEX syntax and a spellchecker, and
confirms that all sections of the proposal are filled
out. Users can request a LATEX or PostScript copy of
their proposal by e-mail, or view the proposal on line.
The advantages of the Web-based process for our users
are convenience, access to on-line documentation, and
the simple interface which avoids direct confrontation
with LATEX. From the NOAO point of view, the advantage
is the use of standardized formats and syntax,
particularly as we begin to receive proposals for the
Gemini telescopes and some independent observatories.
!3
Paper #: 3349-52
Querying the calibration database for the Hubble Space Telescope
using the Internet and the World Wide Web, pp.393-401
Author(s): Calvin Tullos, Space Telescope Science Institute,
Baltimore, MD, USA.
Abstract: Using the WWW, direct query-access has ben made to the
Hubble Space Telescope Calibration Database. All eight
science instruments' reference data, plus photometric
and spectrophotometric standards can be seen. By using
wildcards, a user may retrieve information on all
reference datasets or by using various qualifiers, the
user has the ability to narrow the search down to very
particular sets. The information retrieved not only
lists the existence of filenames for particular modes
of operation, but critical information about when the
reference data has been archived and when it has been
installed for pipeline calibrations. !0
Paper #: 3349-53
Solar system geometry and ephemeris processing for the HST,
pp.402-409
Author(s): Scott Stallcup, Space Telescope Science Institute,
Baltimore, MD, USA.
Abstract: Hubble Space Telescope (HST) moving target observations
are planned using the 'Percy' interactive computer
program. Percy provides ephemeris and geometrical even
information about solar system objects including the
Sun, major planets and their natural satellites,
comets, and asteroids. While Percy contains some HST
specific feature, it should be useful for almost nay
ground or spacecraft based observing system. Percy was
originally developed by JPL, but the Space Telescope
Science Institute took-over all Percy development in
1992. Since then, extensive modifications and many new
features have been added. This paper reflects the
current state of Percy. !3
Paper #: 3349-54
OPUS: the FUSE science data pipeline, pp.410-420
Author(s): James F. Rose, Space Telescope Science Institute,
Baltimore, MD, USA;
C.Heller-Boyer, Space Telescope Science Institute,
Baltimore, MD, USA;
M.A. Rose, Space Telescope Science Institute,
Baltimore, MD, USA;
M.Swam, Space Telescope Science Institute,
Baltimore, MD, USA;
W.Miller, Space Telescope Science Institute,
Baltimore, MD, USA;
G.A. Kriss, Johns Hopkins Univ., Baltimore, MD, USA;
William R. Oegerle, Johns Hopkins Univ., Baltimore,
MD, USA.
Abstract: This paper describes how the OPUS pipeline, currently
used for processing science data from the Hubble Space
Telescope (HST), was used as the backbone for
developing the science data pipeline for a much smaller
mission. The far ultraviolet spectroscopic explorer
(FUSE) project selected OPUS for its data processing
pipeline platform and selected the OPUS team at the
STScI to write the FUSE pipeline applications. A total
of 105 new modules were developed for the FUSE
pipeline. The foundation of over 250 modules in the
OPUS libraries allowed development to proceed quickly
and with considerable confidence that the underlying
functionality is reliable and robust. Each task
represented roughly 90 percent reuse, and the project
as a whole shows over 70 percent reuse of the existing
OPUS system. Taking an existing system that is
operational, and will be maintained for many years to
come, was a key decision for the FUSE mission. Adding
the extensive experience of the OPUS team to the task
resulted in the development of a complete telemetry
pipeline system within a matter of months. Reusable
software has been the siren song of software
engineering and object- oriented design for a decade or
more. The development of inexpensive software systems
by adapting existing code to new applications is as
attractive as it has been elusive. The OPUS telemetry
pipeline for the FUSE mission has proven to be a
significant exception to that trend. !5
Paper #: 3349-55
Observation data set of the Subaru observation software system,
pp.421-426
Author(s): George Kosugi,
Subaru Telescope/National Astronomical Observatory of
Japan, Hilo, HI, USA;
Toshiyuki Sasaki,
Subaru Telescope/National Astronomical Observatory of
Japan, Hilo, HI, USA;
Yoshihiko Mizumoto,
Subaru Project/National Astronomical Observatory of J
apan, Mitaka Tokyo, Japan;
Tadafumi Takata,
Subaru Telescope/National Astronomical Observatory of
Japan, Hilo, HI, USA;
Jun A. Kawai, Fujitsu America, Inc., Chiba, Japan;
Yasuhide Ishihara, Fujitsu Ltd., Mihama Chiba,
Japan.
Abstract: An observation data set (OD) has an important role in
Subaru Observation Software System in order to connect
the observation control system with the data analysis
system. OD includes abstract commands of getting both a
science object data and its calibration data
indispensable to calibration. Acquisition conditions of
each calibration data are also defined in the OD. The
observation schedule may be optimized and re-arranged
using the OD during the observation in scheduling mode.
In the manual operation mode, indication of the next
observation command may be given through the OD. The OD
is used for automated data analysis, such as pipeline
processing, in the data analysis system in the base
facility in Hilo, Hawaii. Feedback of the control
parameters and real-time quality assessment of the
acquired data to observation scheduling will be
achieved using the supercomputer system at Hilo in a
few years. !9
Paper #: 3349-56
Observation control system for the Subaru Telescope and its user
interface, pp.427-434
Author(s): Toshiyuki Sasaki,
Subaru Telescope/National Astronomical Observatory of
Japan, Hilo, HI, USA;
George Kosugi,
Subaru Telescope/National Astronomical Observatory of
Japan, Hilo, HI, USA;
Junichi Noumaru,
Subaru Telescope/National Astronomical Observatory of
Japan, Hilo, HI, USA;
Tadafumi Takata,
Subaru Telescope/National Astronomical Observatory of
Japan, Hilo, HI, USA;
Yoshihiko Mizumoto,
Subaru Project/National Astronomical Observatory of J
apan, Mitaka Tokyo, Japan;
Ryusuke Ogasawara,
Subaru Telescope/National Astronomical Observatory of
Japan, Hilo, HI, USA;
Yoshihiro Chikada,
Subaru Project/National Astronomical Observatory of J
apan, Tokyo, Japan;
Wataru Tanaka,
Subaru Project/National Astronomical Observatory of J
apan, Mitaka-shi Tokyo, Japan;
Jun A. Kawai, Fujitsu America, Inc., Chiba, Japan.
Abstract: Subaru telescope observation control system is composed
of several systems such as a telescope control system,
an observation supervisor system, a data acquisition
system, and a data archival system. Each system
consists of several processes to carry out observation
operation in cooperating with other processes by
passing control messages and by exchanging their status
data. All acquired data is registered in database
together with related data such as status and log data
of the telescope and instruments. Observers and their
observation proposals are registered in the control
system as a NIS$PLU user and NIS$PLU group. User access
to the control. system is managed according to the
registered operation level. User interface of the
control system is described with some samples of screen
displays. !9
Paper #: 3349-57
Flexible observing modes employed at the WIYN Observatory,
pp.435-440
Author(s): David G. Sawyer, WIYN Observatory, Tucson, AZ, USA;
Arthur D. Code, Univ. of Wisconsin/Madison, Tucson,
AZ, USA;
Jeffrey W. Percival, Univ. of Wisconsin/Madison,
Madison, WI, USA;
Paul S. Smith,
National Optical Astronomy Observatories, Tucson,
AZ, USA.
Abstract: The WIYN 3.5 meter telescope on Kitt Peak, Arizona is
operated by a consortium involving three universities
and the National Optical Astronomical Observatories
(NOAO) each with their own set of scientific
requirements and research objectives. To meet this
diversity a variety of operational modes are being
used. It is the purpose of this paper to describe the
experience acquired so far with queue scheduling,
remote observing, consortium-wide coordinated programs,
and student involvement. Observing time is block
scheduled in such a way that each WIYN member receives
their equitable distribution with respect to season and
lunation. NOAO provides operations support and receives
40 percent of the observing time which is made
available to the general astronomical community through
the same mechanism as for other NOAO facilities. The
largest fraction of this time, however, is devoted to
queue scheduling. The remaining 60 percent of the
observing time is divided among the three universities
in proportion to their contribution to the capital
costs of the observatory. Each university has its own
approach to assigning observing time and utilizing
their blocks. Among the modes employed are traditional
on-site, service, and remote observing. The WIYN
telescope supports rapid changing of instrumentation
and it is common to do multiple-instrument observing
during the course of a night. This also expedites the
sharing of nights by more than one observer. The
flexibility also provides the means to respond to
targets of opportunity. In this paper we shall try to
evaluate the ways in which this flexibility has been
able to enhance scientific return. !9
Paper #: 3349-60
Visualization tools to support proposal submission, pp.441-449
Author(s): Anuradha Koratkar,
Space Telescope Science Institute, Baltimore, MD,
USA;
Sandy Grosvenor, Federal Data Corp., Greenbelt, MD,
USA;
Jeremy E. Jones, NASA Goddard Space Flight Ctr.,
Greenbelt, MD, USA;
Lisa Dallas, NASA Goddard Space Flight Ctr.,
Greenbelt, MD, USA;
Tom Brooks, Century Computing, Greenbelt, MD, USA;
LaMont Ruley, NASA Goddard Space Flight Ctr.,
Greenbelt, MD, USA.
Abstract: Many scientific observational programs require the
field of view (FOV) or aperture to have a specific
orientation on the sky. Since orientation requirements
have a very strong impact on other aspects of the
execution of the observation, an observer must have the
ability to visualize the orientation of the science
aperture and determine the effect of the orientation on
the possible scheduling of the observation. We are
prototyping an interactive, visual tool for fine-tuning
the target location and orientation. To make efficient
use of any instrument the user needs to understand the
various modes of the instrument and then calculate
exposure times or signal-to-noise ratios for many
different kinds of observations. Thus, the exposure
time calculator (ETC) is an essential tool that is used
by various users for many different purposes. We are
prototyping a more dynamic graphical ETC in which the
user can simulate to some extent and determine the
effect of various input parameters. This interactive
exposure time calculator will not only be intuitive but
will provide various users the different level of
detailed information they desire. The VTT and ETC are
Web-based tools that can be used by themselves or as
part of the Scientist's Expert Assistant, for the next
generation space telescope proposal management system.
Currently, the tools are being developed with the
requirements of HST in mid, but will also be easily
adaptable to other observatories. The underlying
software for the tools is an object-oriented Java-based
applet. The object-oriented nature of the design is
intended to allow the tools to easily expand their
features or to be customized. By making the system
Java-based, we gain the ability to easily distribute
the applet across a wide set of operating system and
users. In addition to executing the tools as a Java
applet, it can be loaded onto a user's workstation and
run as an application independent of a Web browser. !0
Paper #: 3349-61
Expert assistant system to support the general observer program
for NGST, pp.450-455
Author(s): Tom Brooks, Century Computing, Greenbelt, MD, USA;
Lisa Dallas, NASA Goddard Space Flight Ctr.,
Greenbelt, MD, USA;
Sandy Grosvenor, Federal Data Corp., Greenbelt, MD,
USA;
Jeremy E. Jones, NASA Goddard Space Flight Ctr.,
Greenbelt, MD, USA;
Anuradha Koratkar,
Space Telescope Science Institute, Baltimore, MD,
USA;
LaMont Ruley, NASA Goddard Space Flight Ctr.,
Greenbelt, MD, USA.
Abstract: One of the manually intensive efforts of HST observing
is the specification and validation of the detailed
proposals for scientists observing with the telescope.
In order to meet the operational cost objectives for
the next generation telescope, this process needs to be
dramatically less time consuming and less costly. We
are prototyping a new proposal development system, the
Scientist's Expert Assistant (SEA), using a combination
of artificial intelligence and user interface
techniques to reduce the time and effort involved for
both scientists and the telescope operations staff. The
advanced architectures and automation branch or
Goddard's Information Systems Center is working with
the Space Telescope Science Institute to explore SEA
alternatives, using an iterative
prototype-review-revise cycle. We are testing the
usefulness of rule-based expert systems to painlessly
guide a scientist to his or her desired observation
specification. We are also examining several potential
user interface paradigms and explore data visualization
schemes to see which techniques are more intuitive. Our
prototypes will be validated using HST's Advanced
Camera for Surveys instrument as a live test
instrument. Having an operational test-bed will ensure
the most realistic feedback possible for the
prototyping cycle. In addition, when the instruments
for NGST are better defined, the SEA will already be a
proven platform that simply needs adapting to NGST
specific instruments. !1
Paper #: 3349-63
High-altitude medical and operations problems and solutions for
the Millimeter Array, pp.456-465
Author(s): Peter J. Napier,
National Radio Astronomy Observatory, Socorro, NM,
USA;
John B. West, Univ. of California/San Diego,
La Jolla, CA, USA.
Abstract: The 5000m altitude of the potential site for the
Millimeter Array (MMA) in Northern Chile is so high
that high-altitude problems for both the staff and
equipment must be considered and included in planing
for the facility. The very good accessibility of the
site, only one hour's drive from the nearest town at
altitude 2440m, makes it possible for MMA workers to
sleep and perform much of their work at low altitude.
Workers on the site will have 11 percent less oxygen
available than workers at Mauna Kea Observatory. It is
expected that the mental abilities and ability to do
hard physical labor of workers on the high site will be
reduced by 10 percent to 30 percent compared to
sea-level. In-doors working areas on the MMA site will
have their atmospheres oxygen enriched to provide an
effective working altitude of 3500m where loss of
mental ability should be small. Tests of oxygen
enrichment at high-altitude Chilean mines and at the
University of California White Mountain Research
Station show that it is feasible and economic. Problems
of equipment operation at 5000m altitude are expected
to be manageable. !22
Paper #: 3349-65
Apache Point Observatory 3.5-m telescope: operational design and
issues, pp.466-477
Author(s): Bruce Gillespie, Apache Point Observatory, Sunspot,
NM, USA.
Abstract: No abstract available. !0
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