Purpose and Scope

Associated Universities, Inc. (AUI) conducts its management and operations of its corporate functions and Research Centers, including the National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) and the Green Bank Observatory (GBO), collectively referred to as “the Observatory.” This document defines the core policies for use of the AUI’s operational research facilities of the Karl G. Jansky Very Large Array (VLA), the Very Long Baseline Array (VLBA), and the Robert C. Byrd Green Bank Telescope (GBT). The policies concerning the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) are maintained independently. Users of ALMA should refer to the documents available online at https://almascience.nrao.edu/documents-and-tools.

The long-term policies set forth in this document supersede other documents in circulation. The Call for Proposals contains the implementation parameters and procedures for the call; however, when in conflict with the policies defined in this document, the NRAO Users’ Policies takes precedence unless explicitly stated.

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.