However, the AAO does provide some consumable supplies, e.g. photographic plates, dry ice, nitrogen, liquid nitrogen and computer supplies. These are available on request from the Epping Laboratory. Any backup program must make use of the instrumentation requested in the original proposal. You will also find information on how to use the telephone system. The fax machine is also located on the first floor and telexes can be sent via the ANU terminal.
Mail is collected once a day and postage stamps are available.
The first floor has several offices for visiting observers as well as the library, chart and catalogue room and a measuring room. During observing runs, a night assistant is in charge of the telescope. The night assistant will operate the telescope and control system to acquire and track an object and will assist the observer as directed. The observer will normally be responsible for the actual data taking and control of the instrumentation. If requested ahead of time, a support astronomer will be present at the telescope to advise inexperienced or infrequent users of the telescope.