With the imminent availability of Gemini North and the phasing out of the smaller telescopes on Kitt Peak, the scientific staff has re-examined the policy for thesis observing at KPNO. The intention is to give thesis work equal status on all KPNO telescopes, regardless of aperture. We are still addressing the issue of implied long-term commitment. Before a major change is implemented, we may adopt a unified policy for both sites, and we must assure that the proposal ingest and evaluation system has the tools in place. For the coming semester, students who seek a long-term guarantee for their thesis observing should also apply for long-term status. Given the strong oversubscription, only a very few superior proposals are likely to be granted long-term status, but continuing proposals can, as before, be submitted on a semester by semester basis. The initial proposal should request clearly the total amount of time required for successful completion of the project. The final allocation will, of course, be determined by the Director on the basis of TAC advice. Thesis students are expected to take the lead on their observing programs and to be present on the mountain for scheduled runs. The WIYN telescope will be classically scheduled for such programs.
Richard Green