Markus Kissler-Patig
Director’s Message
Strategic Vision for 2020+ Nears Completion
Gemini is finalizing the Observatory’s broad strategic vision for the years beyond 2020. As
reported in the last two issues of GeminiFocus, the Gemini Board has set up a Strategic Vision Committee (find their terms at this link), and requested your input through a survey
focusing on the way forward and which opportunities we should pursue. Thank you for
sending us around 250 responses, together with many useful comments and suggestions.
While the committee is now analyzing the responses, at first glance we received broad support for the general principles set forth by the Gemini Board of Directors and its Science
and Technology Advisory Committee.
Many of the various specialization scenarios were also supported, although generally at
levels of 20-30% of the total observing time. The most popular scenario was the status quo!
We welcome this as a sign of confidence in the way Gemini is currently operating — so
thank you! We will nevertheless not stop innovating to support your scientific endeavors
and will continue to strive to be the best observatory in the world for the execution of
flexible, innovative, and efficient science programs. The final version of the Gemini Board’s
Strategic Vision is expected after their next meeting in November.
Keeping in Touch With You
Gemini continues its involvement in activities relevant to our participating countries. For
instance, Gemini leadership attended both the 13th Annual Meeting of the Chilean Astronomical Society (SOCHIAS) in Antofagasta, Chile, and the Canadian Astronomical Society
(CASCA) meeting in Manitoba, Canada. In August and September, Gemini also participated
in the Sociedade Astronômica Brasileira (SAB) meeting in Ribeirão Preto, as well as the Asociación Argentina de Astronomía (AAA) meeting in San Juan. Attending these gatherings
gives us an opportunity to present the latest news and developments from Gemini and, per-
October 2016
GeminiFocus
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