Proposing for the VLA

Call for Proposals

 Access to the call for proposals.

Guide to NRAO User Portal

 Access to my.nrao.edu, PST, etc.

Guide to Proposing for the VLA

 The VLA Proposal Guide

OSS Archive

Observational Status Summary for previous call for proposals observing semesters (including the current observing semester)

Current OSS

Observational Status Summary for the next observing semester (current call for proposals)

Exposure Calculator

 Determines time required to reach certain rms or rms given time on source

Proposal Evaluation
and Time Allocation

 Proposals are evaluated on the basis of scientific merit and technical feasibility and are granted time by using a panel-based proposal review system.

Proposal Finding Tool

 Search cover sheets of approved NRAO telescope proposals.

Configurations & Deadlines

 Detailed schedule of recent & future VLA configurations and NRAO proposal deadlines. When the array is in the "A" configuration, the telescopes extend over the 21 km length of each of the 3 array arms. The array size decreases in the "B" and "C" configurations until, in the "D" configuration, the telescopes are all within 0.6 kilometer of the center.

Frequently Asked Questions

 Frequently asked questions about proposing.

Connect with NRAO

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

Founded in 1956, the NRAO provides state-of-the-art radio telescope facilities for use by the international scientific community. NRAO telescopes are open to all astronomers regardless of institutional or national affiliation. Observing time on 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. NRAO also provides both formal and informal programs in education and public outreach for teachers, students, the general public, and the media.

The National Science Foundation (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.