Operations model for the Large Binocular Telescope

Richard F. Green; R. Mark Wagner; Joar Brynnel; John M. Hill; James H. Slagle

doi:10.1117/12.672156

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29 June 2006 Operations model for the Large Binocular Telescope

Richard F. Green, R. Mark Wagner, Joar Brynnel, John M. Hill, James H. Slagle

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Proceedings Volume 6270, Observatory Operations: Strategies, Processes, and Systems; 62700B (2006) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.672156
Event: SPIE Astronomical Telescopes + Instrumentation, 2006, Orlando, Florida , United States

Abstract

The Large Binocular Telescope Observatory is expecting to support its first routine observing runs for partner astronomers by early 2007. When fully operational, the variety of observing modes will require a combination of skilled staff and prepared observers for full scientific productivity. The pair of 8.4-meter primaries can be operated as parallel channels to feed permanently mounted, paired wide-field direct imaging cameras, and optical and near-IR spectrographs. The two pairs of spectrographs support custom-drilled multi-object masks, with particular care required for the vacuum exchange in the near-IR system. Instruments with initially restricted user groups include a high-dispersion, stable fiber-fed echelle spectrograph and two beam-combining interferometers. The near-IR spectrograph and beam-combining instruments will depend on routine and reliable high performance from the adaptive optics system, based on the two 0.9-m adaptive secondary mirrors. We present preliminary plans for specialist staffing and scheduling modes for support of the science and deployment of instrumental modes by the partners.

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Richard F. Green, R. Mark Wagner, Joar Brynnel, John M. Hill, and James H. Slagle "Operations model for the Large Binocular Telescope", Proc. SPIE 6270, Observatory Operations: Strategies, Processes, and Systems, 62700B (29 June 2006); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.672156

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