Plan Ahead
Some of our PIs prefer the classical approach
(see Figure 1), and we welcome that. Classical
visitor feedback reports tell us that that they
have had very positive experiences at Gemini.
A roughly 90-percent majority of Gemini users, however, prefer queue. Visiting queue
PIs realize all the same benefits as a classical
observer with one exception: they have the
advantage of leaving any unexecuted observations in the queue after they leave. Band 1,
2, and 3 PIs are welcome, however, we will not
preferentially schedule programs in Band 3
for visitors.
To visit Gemini as a queue PI or student, contact your National Gemini Office. They will assist you in submitting a visitor request form.
Be sure to specify in your request the duration
of the visit, and how much time you expect
to stay at the summit and base facility. Also
note any special requirements or requests
(e.g., assistance with data reduction and special timing needs). Due to budget constraints,
Gemini cannot offer financial assistance, with
one exception: the observatory will cover
summit expenses (lodging, transportion, and
meals) for student observers. Once a visit is
approved, our administrative staff will help
with local logistics, such as arranging lodging
in Hilo or La Serena, as well as all summit logistical issues.
We like company, and we’ll do our best to
make your visit productive and enjoyable.
You’ll not only get to see your 8-meter telescopes in action, but enjoy the pristine natural locations of two of the most fabulous astronomical sites on the planet. They really are
pretty spectacular (if we do say so ourselves)
and we look forward to seeing you soon. Until
then, clear skies!
Bernadette Rodgers is Gemini South Head of
Science Operations. She can be reached at:
[email protected]
41
GeminiFocus
A Dream Comes True:
Brazilian Students
Meet Large Telescopes
by Jorge Meléndez
In the era of large telescopes, it is becoming
increasingly common to acquire observations
remotely. As a result, astronomers are losing
direct contact with their precious link to the
universe. This is especially true for countries
with only a small share of telescope time, such
as Brazil. The large majority of our approved
projects at Gemini take only a few hours
of observing time, which is not enough for
deserving observations in visitor mode. In
addition, many graduate students work on
their thesis projects without ever visiting the
o