The OPT, SCT, and RCT Tools

The Observation Preparation Tool (OPT) is one of the three tools (OPT, and SCT and RCT below) of the OPT web application, and is used to schedule an observation by creating a list of scans and to generate an observing run (Scheduling Block) from that list. Each scan consists of a telescope pointing direction (selected from the SCT below) using a specific hardware and instrument configuration (selected from the RCT below) combined with an observing mode action lasting for a time interval (specified using this OPT), and typically for a specific reason, an intent. A schematic flow diagram with these components is shown in Figure 1.1.

 

OPT Figure 1.1

Figure 1.1: Schematic flow diagram from an approved proposal to completion of all observations for a project. The purpose of the Observation Preparation Tool web application is to get from the proposal to the observing scripts. Flow along the gray arrows is the responsibility of NRAO. Either NRAO or the user will have to fill out the path along the flow of the white arrows. The flow along the black arrows is the responsibility of the user, using the SCT (blue box), the RCT (red box) and the OPT (green area) in the NRAO OPT web application.

 

The Source Catalog Tool (SCT) is the OPT web application tool that is used to specify a collection of telescope pointing directions, from which one can select when creating a list of scans in the OPT.

The Resource Catalog Tool (RCT) is the OPT web application tool that is used to specify a collection of hardware and instrument configurations, from which one can select when creating a list of scans in the OPT.

Connect with NRAO

The NSF National Radio Astronomy Observatory and NSF Green Bank Observatory are facilities of the U.S. National Science Foundation operated under cooperative agreement by Associated Universities, Inc.

Founded in 1956, the NSF NRAO provides state-of-the-art radio telescope facilities for use by the international scientific community. NSF NRAO telescopes are open to all astronomers regardless of institutional or national affiliation. Observing time on NSF NRAO telescopes is available on a competitive basis to qualified scientists after evaluation of research proposals on the basis of scientific merit, the capability of the instruments to do the work, and the availability of the telescope during the requested time. NSF NRAO also provides both formal and informal programs in education and public outreach for teachers, students, the general public, and the media.

The U.S. National Science Foundation (U.S. NSF) is an independent federal agency created by Congress in 1950 "to promote the progress of science; to advance the national health, prosperity, and welfare; to secure the national defense..."

AUI collaborates with the scientific community and research sponsors to plan, build, and operate cutting-edge facilities. We cultivate excellence, deliver value, enhance education, and engage the public.