CalendarsRead 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 and/or gratings you want to use are what are listed on the science schedule. If not, get in touch with LDT staff as soon as possible to let us know. If If you will be observing remotely, review the LDT Remote Observing information page.
Checklist:
The following calendars may prove useful in preparing for your assigned observing time at LDT- Important Notes for LDT Users and Visitors – Please read.
- Instrument Manual(s) – These give the latest instrument news and details of using the instruments.
- Calendars:
- LDT Science Observing Schedule – Lists observing programs, moon fraction, requested instrument setup, etc. Make sure that the filters and/or gratings you want to use are what are listed here. If not, get in touch with LDT staff at least a week before your observing night.
- LDT Monthly Observing and TO Calendar – Best location to determine who the TO will be during your assigned time.
Merged Sun/Moon/rise/set - – Calendars from
- – From L. Wasserman to guide observing preparation.
General Preparation Checklist:
Before showing up for an LDT observing run (either in person or remote):
- First-Time User Support – If you are a first time observer to LDT, or you are using a new instrument, contact LDT staff so that we can set up time on your first night to cover any questions or issues.
- Lodging Reservations – Make a reservation if
- you plan to use Lowell housing for in-person observing runs
- .
- Remote Observing – Review the connection information for remote observations
- Contact your first night TO(s) – Email your operator(s) (dctoperator at lowell dot edu)
- 3-4 days before your observing night. Include:
- When and how you plan to arrive (physically or virtually)
- ;
- Whether you need time for twilight calibrations;
- What other observing plans the TO needs to be aware of;
- Any unusual observing setup needs (this includes order-blocking filters for DeVeny).
- Target Lists / Pattern Data / Ephemerides – Prepare your target lists, pattern data files, and
If you are a first time observer to LDT, or you are using a new instrument, please review the First-Time User Support at LDT 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.
- ephemerides before your observing night.