Calendars:
The following calendars may prove useful in preparing for your assigned observing time at LDT:
- LDT Science Observing Schedule (START HERE) – Lists observing programs, moon fraction, requested instrument setup, etc.
- LDT Monthly Observing and TO Calendar – Best location to determine who the TO will be during your assigned time.
- Merged Sun/Moon/rise/set: 2019, 2020, 2021
On this page, have a general checklist of things observers need to do.
- – Calendars from L. Wasserman to guide observing preparation.
General Preparation Checklist:
Before showing up for an LDT observing run (either in person or remote):Things to do before showing up for a DCT observing run.
- Read the Important Notes for all LDT Users and Visitors
- Carefully review the instrument manual(s) for the instrument(s) you plan to use.
- Make sure that the filters or gratings you want to use are what are listed on the quarterly calendar science schedule. If not, get in touch with DCT LDT staff as soon as possible to let us know.
- If you plan to use Lowell housing for in-person observing runs, make your lodging reservations.
- Contact your first night TO(s) (dctoperator at lowell dot edu) and let them know what your plans are, and if you have any unusual observing setup needs. This includes when you plan to arrive (physically or virtually) at LDT and whether you need time for twilight calibrations.
- Get Prepare your target lists preparedand/or pattern data and/or ephemerides.
- If you will be observing remotely, review the LDT Remote Observing information page.
If you are a first time observer to DCTLDT, or you are using a new instrument, please email DCT review the LDT First Time Users page, and contact LDT staff so that we can set up time on your first night to cover any questions or issues you are wondering about. Typically one, or another Lowell staff member will meet you out at the DCT about an hour before sunset for this. Also, please review the LDT First Time Users page.
If you have not been to the site before, please don't enter without a Lowell staffer, or someone who is familiar with the site. There is an alarm that needs to be dis-armed, and it is not always obvious how. Your lodging packet should include keys and written instructions about the gate and alarm codes.
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