What's New for NOAO Observing Proposals

Read the following "What's New" section to see what changes to expect in the proposal process from previous semesters. Be sure to look also at the Instrument Lists to see what facilities and instrumentation are available at Gemini, HET, Magellan, MMT, CTIO, and KPNO.

Long term restrictions. Long term proposals are being accepted for all facilities available through NOAO, including Gemini (new in 2003A). Long-term status for Gemini proposals is only available with facility instruments. Proposals for long-term status on CTIO Telescopes will be accepted only with prior consultation with the instrument scientist, due to changing instrumentation.
Changes to proposal form. We include here a summary of the major recent changes to the proposal form. Please read the instructions carefully so you aware of these and any other changes since the last time you submitted a proposal for time at any NOAO facilities.
- Grant Support - the "Use of Other Facilities" essay section is now called "Use of Other Facilities or Resources" and requests information regarding any grants that may provide resources to support your program. (new in 2005B)
- Joint (multi-partner) Gemini proposals must now be submitted using Gemini's Phase-I Tool (PIT). (new in 2005A)
- A new "Extrasolar Planets" scientific category is now available, with proposals to be reviewed by the "Solar System" panel. In the past, these proposals were usually considered "Galactic - Other" or "Solar System - Other." The SS panel is now assembled with particular attention paid to including expertise in this area. (new in 2004B)
- Proposers may now choose a proprietary period other than the default 18 months. Requests for longer durations must be approved by the NOAO Director. Please see NOAO's Data Rights Policy. (new in 2004A)
Required target tables. Target tables are required for all Gemini runs. Target tables are no longer required for standard WIYN observing programs, since these are now classically scheduled. Target tables are included on the run details pages for each run when the proposal form is printed. Target tables may be included with any run, but are optional for other telescopes. Target tables for Gemini runs have a different format than the other target tables.
Instrument lists. As with each semester the instrument lists have undergone several modifications. Check these lists for instrument availability before filling out your instrument requirements.
Observers should note that anyone who wishes to use a PI instrument on the MMT must consult with the PI and obtain a letter of approval and consent which should be submitted by the instrument PI to noaoprop-letter@noao.edu before the proposal deadline.

Help, as well as any comments and/or suggestions, may be directed to noaoprop-help@noao.edu

National Optical Astronomy Observatory, 950 North Cherry Avenue, P.O. Box 26732, Tucson, Arizona 85726, Phone: (520) 318-8000, FAX: (520) 318-8360

Last updated: Feb 15 2005