The National Optical Astronomy Observatories, on behalf of the National Science Foundation, is soliciting applications for the continued operation of the 1.3-m telescope, which is currently located on Kitt Peak. In 1997, NOAO discontinued operating the telescope because of budget constraints and is now soliciting applications by institutions that are prepared to assume the full responsibility - technical, scientific, and financial - for operation. Applications will be reviewed by an independent panel of astronomers. Factors to be considered in the evaluation include: 1) quality and significance of the proposed scientific programs; 2) educational impact of the proposed use; 3) plans for instrumenting the telescope; 4) plans for public outreach; and 5) technical and financial resources available to ensure that the proposed program will be implemented successfully. Proposals for continued operation on Kitt Peak, transfer to another site, or for a long-term use agreement for a specific program will all be accepted for review. Proposers will be expected to provide funding for the entire cost of operation and, if appropriate, for transporting the telescope to another location.
Letters of intent to submit a proposal should be sent to Sidney Wolff and are due by 30 May. Requests for additional information about the telescope and its performance should be directed to Bruce Bohannan. The proposals themselves will be due 15 July.
Specifications for the telescope and estimated costs of operation or removal are available through the NOAO home page.
Sidney C. Wolff