Proposal Types

In response to a semester Call for Proposals, three proposal types can be submitted for the standard semester deadlines each year:

  • Regular proposals
  • Large proposals
  • Triggered proposals

One other type of proposal is available and may be submitted at anytime:

  • Directors' Discretionary Time (DDT) 

Section 3 of the NRAO and GBO Users' Policy  details the different proposal types and the requirements for proposal preparation, as well as information about joint proposing opportunities.

The NRAO data policy per proposal type is available in Section 5.5 of the NRAO and GBO Users' Policy.

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.