That is, they should make sure to put enough time aside to get properly prepared and focussed before the observing starts. Chris Stubbs suggests putting together a newsletter on a regular basis, describing recent developments on the telescope, progress on observing techniques, etc., etc. Much discussion whether the e-mail exploders, these minutes, etc., are sufficient for keeping people informed about the status of the telescope and instrument. This is not so easy, as each of these manuals have been written by different people. However, everyone agreed that the current 3-month scheduling cycle is just right.
People take advantage of the flexibility and the short turn-around time for their science.
Last month's minutes are approved. The purpose of the on-site training requirement is to give observers a clear idea of what they are doing with each command or request sent from the remote location. Also, we would like the remote observer to understand the tasks asked of the observing specialist, and what is required for the observing specialist to accomplish these tasks. Be familiar with the off-axis mount of the NA2 Guider, and how it is affected by rotator position. Understand what is involved when the observing specialist performs basic tasks, such as opening the dome, mirror covers, louvers, or eyelids, and changing instruments.