Mixing completion, commissioning, and operations at the LBT

Richard F. Green; John M. Hill; Joar Brynnel; James H. Slagle; David S. Ashby; Norman J. Cushing; John K. Little; R. Mark Wagner

doi:10.1117/12.927272

13 September 2012 Mixing completion, commissioning, and operations at the LBT

Richard F. Green, John M. Hill, Joar Brynnel, James H. Slagle, David S. Ashby, Norman J. Cushing, John K. Little, R. Mark Wagner

Author Affiliations +

Proceedings Volume 8448, Observatory Operations: Strategies, Processes, and Systems IV; 844815 (2012) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.927272
Event: SPIE Astronomical Telescopes + Instrumentation, 2012, Amsterdam, Netherlands

Abstract

As of July 2012, the Large Binocular Telescope Observatory is supporting scientific observing 60% of the time with binocular prime focus imaging, single-sided optical and near-IR imaging and spectroscopy, and adaptive optics imaging. Interspersed in the last year were installation and commissioning of the second adaptive optics system and recommissioning of the LUCI near-IR instrument with a replacement detector. Initial commissioning of mid-IR interferometry is underway as well. We examine the lost time statistics and distribution of issues that reduced on-sky access in the context of the limited technical support provided for observing. We discuss some of the root causes of and responses to a critical operational readiness review. The manner in which programs are selected and scheduled for the different partners is reviewed. The goal is to apply the lessons learned to the continuing period of observation plus commissioning anticipated as new spectroscopic, adaptive optics, and interferometric capabilities are added through 2015.

Citation Download Citation

Richard F. Green, John M. Hill, Joar Brynnel, James H. Slagle, David S. Ashby, Norman J. Cushing, John K. Little, and R. Mark Wagner "Mixing completion, commissioning, and operations at the LBT", Proc. SPIE 8448, Observatory Operations: Strategies, Processes, and Systems IV, 844815 (13 September 2012); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.927272

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