Data Policies

In most cases, scientific data acquired by the GBT, VLA, and VLBA/HSA are saved in an archive. The data are reserved for the exclusive use of the observing team for a fixed period of time, after which they become publicly available.

The proprietary period for Regular, Large, and Triggered proposals is normally a maximum of 12 months after the last observation. For data acquired by the VLBA, HSA, or GMVA the nominal proprietary period begins when the correlated data are entered into the data archive by NRAO science operations. At its discretion, the TAC may recommend a proprietary period that differs from the nominal 12 month period. For Large proposals, the proposing team is required to include a data reduction and release plan as part of its proposal justification. While the proprietary period for Large proposals may be up to a maximum of 12 months, the proposers are encouraged to make their data available to the public after a shorter proprietary period.

The TAC recommendation regarding any change in the normal proprietary period is considered as part of the Directors' Review. If the recommendation is accepted, the proposers will be informed and the reason will be provided.

The proprietary period for data acquired by DDT proposals will normally be no more than 6 months and may be waived entirely; i.e., under certain circumstances, the data will be available to other teams or the public as soon as they are acquired. An example where this option might be exercised is when the announcement of a transient event by one team triggers an active proposal of another team. The data would be made available to both teams immediately.

The proprietary period for DDT proposals will be assigned by the relevant Site Director in consultation with the NRAO Director or his/her designee.

 

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.