Gemini Operations for Non-sidereal Target Science
Abstract
Gemini Observatory will continue be an important facility for following up time domain discoveries in the coming decade. We will summarize the Gemini operations model and instrumentation suite and describe how this will complement the current and future surveys, especially LSST. Currently observations are carried out in queue (service), classical (visitor), and priority visitor (visitors execute the queue) modes. Time is allocated by regular partner TACS, a common large program TAC, and by peer review for "fast-turnaround" proposals. Queue observing allows Gemini to easily and frequently execute target-of-opportunity (TOO) observations and this capability will be very important for transient and solar-system science. An example is Gemini's role in the observations of 'Oumuamua in 2017. Gemini's optical and near-IR instrumentation covers a wide range of spatial and spectral resolutions. The next Gemini instrument, SCORPIO, is being designed with LSST follow-up in mind and the current status will be reviewed. Non-sidereal target positions are calculated using ephemerides that are either uploaded by the user or automatically updated daily from JPL's Horizons service. Changes being planned to the operations software to handle the increased volume of TOO triggers and to improve overall efficiency and ease of use will also be presented.
- Publication:
-
AAS/Division for Planetary Sciences Meeting Abstracts #50
- Pub Date:
- October 2018
- Bibcode:
- 2018DPS....5011905M