Observers Activities

When you use the SSU Observatory, here is what needs to be done.

1. Call security.
2. Check UT time (and date) on the computers that control the CCD cameras. Adjust to the nearest second if necessary. If the internet is live this is done automatically.
3. Check the date and time on the Epoch telescope control computer. This is currently set to local time. Adjust to the nearest second if necessary.
4. Start cooling for the CCD camera.
5. Create the appropriate directory or directories for saving images.

   • date/person/object/filters
   • date/flats/filters

   for date use local date at the start of the night --> YYMMDD

6. Check parameters for the FITS headers.In particular, check the OBSERVER parameter.
7. Take your data. Include flat field or dark frames as required.
8. Check your data. Do you know where your data has been saved? Do you need to make a copy of your data? Do you know where and how your data will be archived?
9. Make an appropriate entry in the observatory log.
10. Shut down.
    • CCD camera power off.
    • Telescope power off.
    • Telescopes covered.
    • Quit computer applications.
    • Computers stay running (except during the summer).
    • Computer monitors always off.
11. Roof locked and blocked.
12. Lights off.
13. Door locked.

Reduce that data!