Time assignment information

Compact Array scheduling

During the 2003JANT term arrays 6A, 6B, 1.5B, 750D and EW352 will be scheduled on the ATCA. The term will also start with EW367. The interim 3- and 12-mm systems on three antennas continue to be offered. Given that these systems are still immature, millimetre observations continue to require an ATNF collaborator who is expected to be conversant with their use. Because of summer weather, January term is the worst term for millimetre observing: it is not a millimetre period. As such, there will be no special arrangements for millimetre observers during 2003JANT (e.g. no antenna shuffles or flexible observing). We expect a two - three week shutdown during the term, to allow for millimetre installation and antenna holography. Although more millimetre systems will be available after this shutdown, their full integration is unlikely much before the start of 2003MAYT term.

Replacement time

Following a request from the users' committee, the ATNF now has a formal replacement time policy. This largely reflects existing practice. In particular, if a project is usurped by a NAPA project or target-of-opportunity, or if a significant amount of time is lost because of equipment failure (other than remote observing link failure), then a reasonable effort will be made to reschedule the project promptly. If this is not possible before the next proposal deadline, then the proposal should be resubmitted.

The full guidelines for the replacement of lost time can be seen on the web at

www.atnf.csiro.au/observers/apply/too_apply.html

Data archive requests

The data archives managed by the ATNF are a valuable resource to astronomers.

In general, data obtained from the ATNF facilities is made available to other users on request 18 months after the end of observations, unless a special case for extended proprietary rights is accepted by the Time Allocation Committee. The ATNF Director may override the release of data at his discretion. The end of an observation is defined by the final set of observations requested, either in the original proposal, or in a direct extension of the original proposal.

To improve the accessibility of the ATCA data archive, there is a new web search facility to give the RPFITS files corresponding to particular projects and dates. See

www.narrabri.atnf.csiro.au/observing/archive_requests/

We ask that all data archive requests specifically state which RPFITS files are required. This will help us respond in a timely fashion.

Bob Sault
(Bob.Sault@csiro.au)