Behind the Scenes
Our users will not see many of the essential Transition Program changes required for realizing savings on the non-labor budget , as well as those enabling us to operate with a reduced staff . Table 2 presents a brief overview of the most important of these changes . Figure 1 shows the non-labor savings from some of them .
The End Result
With the Gemini Transition Program changes largely executed , the Observatory is now in a healthy state to move forward in a more streamlined , efficient , cost-effective , and energy-conscious way . The Observatory is thankful for the universal cooperation it received during this difficult period . Gemini is now better positioned to focus on the
Table 2 . Changes “ behind the scenes .”
Change
Software supporting queue operations
Software leading to lower maintenance effort
Energy
Base Facility space usage
Description
We have developed software that decreases the effort needed to operate the queue . The software covers queue filling during the Time Allocation Committee process , queue planning through visualization tools , and handling of the military ’ s requirement for clearances during laser operations .
The Observatory Control System software has been upgraded and improved , primarily to lower the maintenance effort . However , improvements in both the Phase I Tool and the Observing Tool have greatly benefited our users .
Energy saving projects are a core component of the Transition Program . We have installed photovoltaic panels at the telescope on Maunakea ( Figure 2 ); in 2016 we plan to do the same at the Base Facility in Hilo and on Cerro Pachón . We are also applying the recommendations from an energy audit of the Gemini North facilities , which include replacing the chillers at the summit , refurbishing the air conditioners at the base , and replacing all lighting with LEDs . All computer rooms have been separated into hot / cold zones . The total annual savings on our electricity costs are $ 400,000 , while we reduce by about 30 % our reliance on utility-provided power ( most of which is produced using fossil fuels ).
We have reduced the need for external storage at Gemini North , while at Gemini South lab space will be converted to office space ; these changes will remove the need for renting additional buildings for offices .
Spares After reviewing our spares inventory and purchases and making better risk assessments , we have significantly reduced the funds used annually to restock spares .
Overtime
We reduced overtime payments to hourly paid staff , primarily by eliminating weekend checks at Gemini South and limiting overtime usage during telescope shutdowns .
Software licenses
Administrative services
Transportation
Sizable savings were realized by switching either to software with lower license costs or to free software .
Purchasing , contracts , and human resources administration are centrally handled by AURA , either in Tucson or by personnel in La Serena .
We have eliminated several vehicles at both sites , and restructured the use of common transportation at Gemini South .
January 2017 | 2016 Year in Review GeminiFocus
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