Next: Introduction
by
Glenn E. Miller, Space Telescope Science Institute
Abstract:
Most ground-based observatories grant blocks of consecutive nights (or half
nights) to observers, taking into account a variety of constraints and
restrictions. Creating this schedule for an observing semester typically
takes several days of a senior astronomer's time. This paper describes an
adaptation of the Spike scheduling system to the long-term scheduling of
ground-based observatories. The system accounts for the relevant factors
such as moon phase, position of targets, and observer's date preferences.
In addition it accounts for observatory-level factors such as minimizing
telescope and instrument changes, priorities, and reserving time for
engineering operations. The system provides both batch and interactive
modes of operation. A variety of automated scheduling strategies can be run
and the best schedules selected from them. Graphical displays present the
timeline of observations and allow for observations to be adjusted
manually.
scheduling, block scheduling, ground-based observatories