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 [[:chara:power_outage|Power Outage]]\\ [[:chara:power_outage|Power Outage]]\\
 {{:chara:files:co-phase2019.pdf|Co-phasing with the CHARA phase reference}} \\ {{:chara:files:co-phase2019.pdf|Co-phasing with the CHARA phase reference}} \\
 +[[https://docs.google.com/document/d/1w1Ppi21b0Uh37R52btCgwsX6dNYUfEE5hUhncDlNvYQ/edit#|Instructions for using the Six Telescope Simulator (STS)]]\\
 {{:chara:files:labao_with_starlight_v4.pdf|Using Labao with Starlight}} \\ {{:chara:files:labao_with_starlight_v4.pdf|Using Labao with Starlight}} \\
 +[[https://docs.google.com/document/d/1b1f0pgeeKOx5NO-jUOCbFM-e7b9GL8iBMFijD1B3Qc8/edit#|Telescope AO User Manual]]\\
 {{:chara:files:s2_new_finder_camera-r1.docx|New S2 Finder Instructions}} \\ {{:chara:files:s2_new_finder_camera-r1.docx|New S2 Finder Instructions}} \\
 [[:chara:night_time_pop_changes|Night-time POP Changes]]\\ [[:chara:night_time_pop_changes|Night-time POP Changes]]\\
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 \\ \\
 \\ \\
-{{:chara:files:picture_28.png|Picture_28.png}}{{:chara:files:picture_29.png|Picture_29.png}}\\+{{:chara:files:picture_28.png|Picture_28.png}}{{:chara:files:picture_29.png|Picture_29.png}} 
 === 1.1 Lab Rules Intro === === 1.1 Lab Rules Intro ===
  
 \\ \\
-The CHARA optics lab is a building within a building and is intended to provide thermal and vibrational stability. The main goal of the CHARA lab rules is to keep all optics and equipment safe from any hazards. The crucial issue being misalignment of anything. The amount of dust and dander must be kept to a minimum.\\+The CHARA optics lab is a building within a building and is intended to provide thermal and vibrational stability. The main goal of the CHARA lab rules is to keep all optics and equipment safe from any hazards. The crucial issue being misalignment of anything. The amount of dust and dander must be kept to a minimum. 
 === 1.2 The Metrology Laser === === 1.2 The Metrology Laser ===
  
 \\ \\
-A high-powered infrared laser is used for the delay line metrology. This is an eye hazard, so before entering the lab check to make sure the red light above the door is not on. If the laser is activated, it is a must to put on IR-protective goggles. If you are not sure, wear the goggles.\\+A high-powered infrared laser is used for the delay line metrology. This is an eye hazard, so before entering the lab check to make sure the red light above the door is not on. If the laser is activated, it is a must to put on IR-protective goggles. If you are not sure, wear the goggles. 
 === 1.3 General Lab Rules === === 1.3 General Lab Rules ===
  
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 Procedures in the lab must be followed closely and failure to follow these rules will result in loss of lab privileges.\\ Procedures in the lab must be followed closely and failure to follow these rules will result in loss of lab privileges.\\
 * Before entering the lab, you must have a reason or tasks at hand. * Before entering the lab, you must have a reason or tasks at hand.
 +
   * Lab booties/shoe covers must be worn by all. Throw out booties that have holes in them. The traction tape on the steps are particularly rough on booties so examine them before and after using them.   * Lab booties/shoe covers must be worn by all. Throw out booties that have holes in them. The traction tape on the steps are particularly rough on booties so examine them before and after using them.
   * Proper clothing is also important. Loose hanging jackets or garments can snag on mirrors or other exposed equipment and are better left outside of the lab until you are finished.   * Proper clothing is also important. Loose hanging jackets or garments can snag on mirrors or other exposed equipment and are better left outside of the lab until you are finished.
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 ==== Preparations in the Lab Prior to Observing ==== ==== Preparations in the Lab Prior to Observing ====
  
- \\ These are routine tasks to be performed in and around the lab every evening to prepare the array for regular observations. \\+ \\ These are routine tasks to be performed in and around the lab every evening to prepare the array for regular observations.
  
 === 2.1 Starting the vacuum pump for the light pipes === === 2.1 Starting the vacuum pump for the light pipes ===
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   * check pressures on Vacmon display. If pressure is higher than 100 torr in any of the lines, pump those lines only one at a time. Open valve a little, then come back to open fully. When all lines to be used are well below 100 torr, open all those valves.   * check pressures on Vacmon display. If pressure is higher than 100 torr in any of the lines, pump those lines only one at a time. Open valve a little, then come back to open fully. When all lines to be used are well below 100 torr, open all those valves.
  
-The final pressure should be 0.5 - 1.0 Torr in each line. The pump will normally bring all 6 lines down to .2-.3 Torr. The S1 and S2 lines leak the most during the day and will read the highest in the afternoon when you return, usually around 10 and 20 Torr. Note any unusual vacuum readings as they can indicate a leak beyond what is normal. Sometimes a line isn't pumped down the night before and can read higher than 30 Torr. Pump the highest ones down first as stated above. \\  \\+The final pressure should be 0.5 - 1.0 Torr in each line. The pump will normally bring all 6 lines down to .2-.3 Torr. The S1 and S2 lines leak the most during the day and will read the highest in the afternoon when you return, usually around 10 and 20 Torr. Note any unusual vacuum readings as they can indicate a leak beyond what is normal. Sometimes a line isn't pumped down the night before and can read higher than 30 Torr. Pump the highest ones down first as stated above.
  
 === 2.2 Filling IR cameras with LN2 === === 2.2 Filling IR cameras with LN2 ===
  
- \\ Fill both chambers on the NIRO camera. Use the gloves and glasses provided on the shelf with the funnels and the thermos. It will normally take 1 liter of LN2 in the outer chamber and 1/2 liter in the inner chamber. Fill it until the LN2 bubbles out of the top. This camera is normally kept cool all the time, exceptions will be noted. \\  \\ Fill the other dewars ONLY if you were specifically asked to do so. Other IR cameras: JouFLU and Cali (the blue dewar on the JouFLU table). \\  \\ Record that you filled the cameras in the log book, noting time and cameras filled. If you do not observe due to weather, fire or closure, make sure someone on the mountain will fill it for you. \\+ \\ Fill both chambers on the NIRO camera. Use the gloves and glasses provided on the shelf with the funnels and the thermos. It will normally take 1 liter of LN2 in the outer chamber and 1/2 liter in the inner chamber. Fill it until the LN2 bubbles out of the top. This camera is normally kept cool all the time, exceptions will be noted. \\  \\ Fill the other dewars ONLY if you were specifically asked to do so. Other IR cameras: JouFLU and Cali (the blue dewar on the JouFLU table). \\  \\ Record that you filled the cameras in the log book, noting time and cameras filled. If you do not observe due to weather, fire or closure, make sure someone on the mountain will fill it for you.
  
 === 2.3 Alignment of the light path to the telescopes === === 2.3 Alignment of the light path to the telescopes ===
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   * tiptilt Zabers alignment with alignment laser   * tiptilt Zabers alignment with alignment laser
  
-**Covers off**  after you removed the corner cubes from their bases. \\  \\ The labao cameras (just like the tiptilt camera) are safe during pop changes as long as you do not open any labao shutters. You will notice increased counts on the labao cameras (just like in the tiptilt camera) whenever ND=0 alignment laser is going through the system, but this is not harmful as long as the labao shutters are closed. While observing none of the labao shutters need to be or should be opened. As usual, dim the laser after you are done with the pop change to protect any camera in the lab from ghost reflections and scattered laser light. \\+**Covers off**  after you removed the corner cubes from their bases. \\  \\ The labao cameras (just like the tiptilt camera) are safe during pop changes as long as you do not open any labao shutters. You will notice increased counts on the labao cameras (just like in the tiptilt camera) whenever ND=0 alignment laser is going through the system, but this is not harmful as long as the labao shutters are closed. While observing none of the labao shutters need to be or should be opened. As usual, dim the laser after you are done with the pop change to protect any camera in the lab from ghost reflections and scattered laser light.
  
 === 2.4 Alignment of the IR light toward beam combiners === === 2.4 Alignment of the IR light toward beam combiners ===
  
- \\ The IR mirrors on the beam samplers can be adjusted using Pico 2 controller to targets depending on which IR beam combiner is to be used. \\  \\ For CLIMB 1 and CLIMB 2, the removable 6-beam target should be placed in the clamps on the CLIMB table. This also applies to aligning CLIMB for fringe tracking for VEGA or fringe finding for PAVO. \\  \\ For MIRC or JouFLU, the same target should be placed in the clamps on the MIRC table. \\+ \\ The IR mirrors on the beam samplers can be adjusted using Pico 2 controller to targets depending on which IR beam combiner is to be used. \\  \\ For CLIMB 1 and CLIMB 2, the removable 6-beam target should be placed in the clamps on the CLIMB table. This also applies to aligning CLIMB for fringe tracking for VEGA or fringe finding for PAVO. \\  \\ For MIRC or JouFLU, the same target should be placed in the clamps on the MIRC table.
  
   * Place the target to the appropriate table, making sure it seats firmly in the clamps.   * Place the target to the appropriate table, making sure it seats firmly in the clamps.
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   * Select the appropriate IR mirror for the beam you are about to adjust. For ex: S1IR. The Beam Sampler gui tells you which telescope is in the beam you are aligning.   * Select the appropriate IR mirror for the beam you are about to adjust. For ex: S1IR. The Beam Sampler gui tells you which telescope is in the beam you are aligning.
   * When done for all telescope to be used, remove target and place it above the CLASSIC/CLIMB table and remove corner cubes from their stands and place them to the side of the beam path.   * When done for all telescope to be used, remove target and place it above the CLASSIC/CLIMB table and remove corner cubes from their stands and place them to the side of the beam path.
- 
- \\ 
  
 === 2.5 Starting up OPLE and Metrology === === 2.5 Starting up OPLE and Metrology ===
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   * Turn on two blue amplifiers for metrology laser (on button is labeled "line") The units will hum when on.   * Turn on two blue amplifiers for metrology laser (on button is labeled "line") The units will hum when on.
   * Turn the key to ON on the laser power box to put metrology laser on standby   * Turn the key to ON on the laser power box to put metrology laser on standby
- 
- \\ 
  
 === 2.6 Final steps in the lab === === 2.6 Final steps in the lab ===
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   * After lab is completely setup, you need to take off tiptilt cover, but do so with only the dim lights on and the laser shutter closed >> you don't want to blast CCD with light.   * After lab is completely setup, you need to take off tiptilt cover, but do so with only the dim lights on and the laser shutter closed >> you don't want to blast CCD with light.
  
- \\ [[:chara:operating_procedures|Back To Main Menu]] \\ + \\ [[:chara:operating_procedures|Back To Main Menu]]
- \\+
  
-**Chapter 3: ** (edited 2012Aug29 by Gail and Chris)+**Chapter 3: **  (edited 2012Aug29 by Gail and Chris)
  
 ==== Setting up Computer in the Control Room ==== ==== Setting up Computer in the Control Room ====
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   * There are six computer screens which are now horizontally arrayed.   * There are six computer screens which are now horizontally arrayed.
  
- \\ {{:chara:files:fig_monitors_new.jpg|fig_monitors_new.jpg}} \\+ \\ {{:chara:files:fig_monitors_new.jpg|fig_monitors_new.jpg}}
  
   * Things should be arranged as follows:   * Things should be arranged as follows:
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 === 3.6 Using the Cosmic Debris job sequencer === === 3.6 Using the Cosmic Debris job sequencer ===
  
- \\ Open Cosmic Debris, CD for short, - Primary from the menu and move to screen 4 \\+ \\ Open Cosmic Debris, CD for short, - Primary from the menu and move to screen 4
  
   * On the CONFIGURE tab, check to make sure the PoPs and telescope beam assignments agree with the white board   * On the CONFIGURE tab, check to make sure the PoPs and telescope beam assignments agree with the white board
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 ==== Observing Conditions ==== ==== Observing Conditions ====
  
- \\  \\ [[http://www.wrh.noaa.gov/lox/scripts/getprodplus.php?wfo=lox&prod=054ZFPLOX&pretty=yes|{{:chara:files:picture_4.png?nolink&|Picture_4.png}}]] \\ + \\  \\ [[http://www.wrh.noaa.gov/lox/scripts/getprodplus.php?wfo=lox&prod=054ZFPLOX&pretty=yes|{{:chara:files:picture_4.png?nolink&|Picture_4.png}}]]
- \\+
  
 === 4.1 Observing Conditions Intro === === 4.1 Observing Conditions Intro ===
  
- \\  \\ In opening the CHARA Array, conditions should be, for the most part, ideal. If the weather is questionable, it is best if the sky is 60% to 70% clear and conditions stable before commencing. Delicate optics and electronics make up the majority of the Array and it’s better to err on the side of caution. In preparation for observing, the Mount Wilson weather server and web-based weather pages should be consulted. The telescopes can now be closed in about 10 minutes from the control room. With this in mind, don’t open up the telescopes to observe if conditions can change for the worse rapidly enough that you don’t get 10 minutes or more to close down safely. Weather stations now exist at each bunker and there is a control system software application to display the current conditions. Soon this application will also issue warnings. One can also use the white Radio Shack thermometer/hygrometer outside of the control room. With the Array becoming more fancily automated and weather monitoring technology becoming more robust (weather servers, satellite images, web cams, etc.), almost all weather monitoring can be done seemingly without ever leaving the cozy control room. Unfortunately this is not a good policy and nothing beats going outside for a gander and giving the sky a good old fashioned assessment. Obviously weather variations do exist from telescope to telescope, as much as 16% in RH at times. Most of the time this just means something is blowing through and opening is not a good idea. These circumstances need to be dealt with cautiously depending on the given weather conditions. Allowing extra time to close is advised in case of any problems. If any questions or doubts arise contact one of the CHARA staff. \\+ \\  \\ In opening the CHARA Array, conditions should be, for the most part, ideal. If the weather is questionable, it is best if the sky is 60% to 70% clear and conditions stable before commencing. Delicate optics and electronics make up the majority of the Array and it’s better to err on the side of caution. In preparation for observing, the Mount Wilson weather server and web-based weather pages should be consulted. The telescopes can now be closed in about 10 minutes from the control room. With this in mind, don’t open up the telescopes to observe if conditions can change for the worse rapidly enough that you don’t get 10 minutes or more to close down safely. Weather stations now exist at each bunker and there is a control system software application to display the current conditions. Soon this application will also issue warnings. One can also use the white Radio Shack thermometer/hygrometer outside of the control room. With the Array becoming more fancily automated and weather monitoring technology becoming more robust (weather servers, satellite images, web cams, etc.), almost all weather monitoring can be done seemingly without ever leaving the cozy control room. Unfortunately this is not a good policy and nothing beats going outside for a gander and giving the sky a good old fashioned assessment. Obviously weather variations do exist from telescope to telescope, as much as 16% in RH at times. Most of the time this just means something is blowing through and opening is not a good idea. These circumstances need to be dealt with cautiously depending on the given weather conditions. Allowing extra time to close is advised in case of any problems. If any questions or doubts arise contact one of the CHARA staff.
  
 === 4.2 Humidity === === 4.2 Humidity ===
  
- \\  \\ Only open the telescopes if the humidity is steady or dropping, at 75% or below. If the roofs outside the control room are ever dripping, then the telescopes should not be opened or should be closed immediately. If when starting out, the RH is above 80%, do not open unless it drops to below 75% and stays there for at least 30 minutes. If you do open after that, be wary and watch the RH, and if it starts rising, be prepared to close. Closing up takes about 10 minutes, so be ready for that. The array operator is in charge of protecting the telescopes and makes the final decision on whether the conditions are safe to open. If the RH is low at the beginning of the night, and rises after you are already open, the array operator should inform the PI around 70-75%, and start closing between 80-85%. Other humidity warning signs are: 1) water dripping off the OPLE building (or wet spots on the asphalt straight down from the eaves); 2) cold, clammy feel to metal objects such as railings; and 3) dew forming on the parked cars. It is important to note that the humidity can rise from 50% to 80% in as little as 10 minutes, so please keep a close eye on the rate of change of the humidity plots. It can also rain from passing clouds when the humidity is quite low, even 50% RH or lower. If in doubt, stay closed. \\+ \\  \\ Only open the telescopes if the humidity is steady or dropping, at 75% or below. If the roofs outside the control room are ever dripping, then the telescopes should not be opened or should be closed immediately. If when starting out, the RH is above 80%, do not open unless it drops to below 75% and stays there for at least 30 minutes. If you do open after that, be wary and watch the RH, and if it starts rising, be prepared to close. Closing up takes about 10 minutes, so be ready for that. The array operator is in charge of protecting the telescopes and makes the final decision on whether the conditions are safe to open. If the RH is low at the beginning of the night, and rises after you are already open, the array operator should inform the PI around 70-75%, and start closing between 80-85%. Other humidity warning signs are: 1) water dripping off the OPLE building (or wet spots on the asphalt straight down from the eaves); 2) cold, clammy feel to metal objects such as railings; and 3) dew forming on the parked cars. It is important to note that the humidity can rise from 50% to 80% in as little as 10 minutes, so please keep a close eye on the rate of change of the humidity plots. It can also rain from passing clouds when the humidity is quite low, even 50% RH or lower. If in doubt, stay closed.
  
 === 4.3 Dust === === 4.3 Dust ===
  
- \\  \\ Gauging the airborne dust is problematic because you need a bright light and a relatively dark night. In general, you want to look in the bottom 0.5 meter of the light column. There will be a diffuse column lit up by the beam – don’t worry about it, just follow the dust glints. If you can count the dust glints, the conditions are safe to observe. If it looks like a blizzard, close up. If any of the dust glints shine with an orange or a peach hue, or the dust glints look abnormally large, the dust is probably ash – close up immediately. Ash seriously degrades bare aluminum coatings. Dust and wind go together. But, just because it is calm, the dust conditions might still be bad. If it was windy a few days earlier, it could have kicked up a lot of dust, which can take several days to settle. Finally, during late spring to early summer, conifer tree pollen can be problematic. If particulates are borderline please email the CHARA day staff so they can clean the optics as soon as possible. \\+ \\  \\ Gauging the airborne dust is problematic because you need a bright light and a relatively dark night. In general, you want to look in the bottom 0.5 meter of the light column. There will be a diffuse column lit up by the beam – don’t worry about it, just follow the dust glints. If you can count the dust glints, the conditions are safe to observe. If it looks like a blizzard, close up. If any of the dust glints shine with an orange or a peach hue, or the dust glints look abnormally large, the dust is probably ash – close up immediately. Ash seriously degrades bare aluminum coatings. Dust and wind go together. But, just because it is calm, the dust conditions might still be bad. If it was windy a few days earlier, it could have kicked up a lot of dust, which can take several days to settle. Finally, during late spring to early summer, conifer tree pollen can be problematic. If particulates are borderline please email the CHARA day staff so they can clean the optics as soon as possible.
  
 === 4.4 Wind === === 4.4 Wind ===
  
- \\  \\ Wind has the effect of degrading the seeing as well as kicking up dust. The wind effects are amplified in the tunnel between the OPLE building and the office building, so look for other places to gauge the wind conditions. The intersection of the road and the trail to the eastern telescopes is a good place to gauge conditions. To be on the safe side, we only observe under calm to light breeze conditions (gusts less than about 10 knots, or 15 kph). Windy conditions we try to avoid. If you can hear the gusts from your desk, it is too windy to observe. If you hear whistling from the light pipe supports, it is too windy to observe. If you hear the signs on the chain banging, it is too windy to observe. Occasionally you will hear the wind rustling the tops of the tall trees, but it is calm at ground level. This is a symptom of chaotic wind conditions, and almost always happens during windy episodes (Santa Anas, onshore flows, etc.), during which you shouldn’t observe – the seeing will be bad anyway. Be cautious about opening if wind gusts are above 15-20 kph; winds this high are usually correlated with bad seeing and poor data quality. Telescopes and domes should be closed if the wind gusts get up to 30 kph. This will protect the optics from branches and debris that can be blown in from the surrounding trees. \\+ \\  \\ Wind has the effect of degrading the seeing as well as kicking up dust. The wind effects are amplified in the tunnel between the OPLE building and the office building, so look for other places to gauge the wind conditions. The intersection of the road and the trail to the eastern telescopes is a good place to gauge conditions. To be on the safe side, we only observe under calm to light breeze conditions (gusts less than about 10 knots, or 15 kph). Windy conditions we try to avoid. If you can hear the gusts from your desk, it is too windy to observe. If you hear whistling from the light pipe supports, it is too windy to observe. If you hear the signs on the chain banging, it is too windy to observe. Occasionally you will hear the wind rustling the tops of the tall trees, but it is calm at ground level. This is a symptom of chaotic wind conditions, and almost always happens during windy episodes (Santa Anas, onshore flows, etc.), during which you shouldn’t observe – the seeing will be bad anyway. Be cautious about opening if wind gusts are above 15-20 kph; winds this high are usually correlated with bad seeing and poor data quality. Telescopes and domes should be closed if the wind gusts get up to 30 kph. This will protect the optics from branches and debris that can be blown in from the surrounding trees.
  
 === 4.5 Snow === === 4.5 Snow ===
  
- \\ Because of the nature of the snow that falls on Mount Wilson, it is usually not a problem. If snow/wind conditions are such that drifting occurs, don’t open up. If there is still any snow stuck to the telescope dome itself, don’t open up. If there is snow still on the trees and branches procede with caution and make a visual assessment. Otherwise, you are free to observe (assuming the humidity, dust, and wind conditions allow it). \\+ \\ Because of the nature of the snow that falls on Mount Wilson, it is usually not a problem. If snow/wind conditions are such that drifting occurs, don’t open up. If there is still any snow stuck to the telescope dome itself, don’t open up. If there is snow still on the trees and branches procede with caution and make a visual assessment. Otherwise, you are free to observe (assuming the humidity, dust, and wind conditions allow it).
  
 === 4.6 Essential Observing Links === === 4.6 Essential Observing Links ===
- 
- \\ 
  
   * 150-Foot Solar Tower Current TowerCam Image ([[http://www.astro.ucla.edu/%7Eobs/towercam.htm|http://www.astro.ucla.edu/~obs/towercam.htm]]) a live view of the mountain. Check the clock when viewing the page as it can sometimes fail to refresh.   * 150-Foot Solar Tower Current TowerCam Image ([[http://www.astro.ucla.edu/%7Eobs/towercam.htm|http://www.astro.ucla.edu/~obs/towercam.htm]]) a live view of the mountain. Check the clock when viewing the page as it can sometimes fail to refresh.
   * Caltech Millikan Library Camera ([[http://library.caltech.edu/milcam/|http://library.caltech.edu/milcam/]]) A view of Mt. Wilson from the south, good for watching low clouds and fog that cling to the mountain.   * Caltech Millikan Library Camera ([[http://library.caltech.edu/milcam/|http://library.caltech.edu/milcam/]]) A view of Mt. Wilson from the south, good for watching low clouds and fog that cling to the mountain.
   * National Weather Service ([[http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?site=lox&textField1=34.2231&textField2=-118.0587&smap=1#.VKsuq2TF8rO|http://forecast.weather.gov]]) Mount Wilson weather and 5 day forecast   * National Weather Service ([[http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?site=lox&textField1=34.2231&textField2=-118.0587&smap=1#.VKsuq2TF8rO|http://forecast.weather.gov]]) Mount Wilson weather and 5 day forecast
-  * CHARA Array weather ([[http://www.astro.gsu.edu/~theo/Dropbox/Weather%20Site/wxlocal.html|http://www.astro.gsu.edu/]]) Centralized weather station for CHARA +  * CHARA telescopes spy cams and weather graph ([[http://astro.gsu.edu/~weather/chara_scopes.html|http://www.astro.gsu.edu]]) Status of each CHARA telescope 
-  * CHARA telescopes spy cams and weather graph ([[http://www.astro.gsu.edu/~theo/Dropbox/Scopes/chara_scopes.html|http://www.astro.gsu.edu]]) Status of each CHARA telescope+  * Mount Wilson HP Wren Cameras ([[http://hpwren.ucsd.edu/cameras/wilson.html|http://hpwren.ucsd.edu/cameras/wilson.html]])
   * Aerospace Corporation weather station ([[http://www.weatherlink.com/user/mocam/index.php?view=summary&headers=1|http://www.weatherlink.com/user/mocam]]) Another local station, always current.   * Aerospace Corporation weather station ([[http://www.weatherlink.com/user/mocam/index.php?view=summary&headers=1|http://www.weatherlink.com/user/mocam]]) Another local station, always current.
   * Jet stream forecast ([[http://squall.sfsu.edu/scripts/jetstream_modelsml_fcst.html|http://squall.sfsu.edu/scripts/jetstream_modelsml_fcst.html]]) Monitors high level winds which degrade seeing   * Jet stream forecast ([[http://squall.sfsu.edu/scripts/jetstream_modelsml_fcst.html|http://squall.sfsu.edu/scripts/jetstream_modelsml_fcst.html]]) Monitors high level winds which degrade seeing
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 ==== Going on Sky ==== ==== Going on Sky ====
- 
- \\ 
  
 === 5.1 Opening the Telescope Domes and enclosures === === 5.1 Opening the Telescope Domes and enclosures ===
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   * W2 99.3   * W2 99.3
  
- \\ On the Power GUI, turn on the [Tel AZ] and [Tel EL] power for each of the active scopes (green means ON). \\ The new for 2016 stall detection function usually has each scope disabled each evening. They will need to be enabled before checking the dome servers or slewing. Make sure that the telescopes do not move away from their stow positions when enabling the scopes. If they begin moving, then click [STOW] on the Telescope Control Tab or dome gui and make sure that they arrive at the correct stow position. Check for problems with the dome servers by watching each telescope move to the precise stow position, ie. 89.990º and moving to 90.000º. If it stays off the precise stow position, the dome sever may need restarting. Click [REOPEN] on the dome gui if the clock is not the same as the CHARA time. \\+ \\ On the Power GUI, turn on the [Tel AZ] and [Tel EL] power for each of the active scopes (green means ON). \\ The new for 2016 stall detection function usually has each scope disabled each evening. They will need to be enabled before checking the dome servers or slewing. Make sure that the telescopes do not move away from their stow positions when enabling the scopes. If they begin moving, then click [STOW] on the Telescope Control Tab or dome gui and make sure that they arrive at the correct stow position. Check for problems with the dome servers by watching each telescope move to the precise stow position, ie. 89.990º and moving to 90.000º. If it stays off the precise stow position, the dome sever may need restarting. Click [REOPEN] on the dome gui if the clock is not the same as the CHARA time.
  
 === 5.5 Slewing to a Target Using Cosmic Debris === === 5.5 Slewing to a Target Using Cosmic Debris ===
  
- \\  \\ It is typically dark enough to lock on your first star if TT reports ~ 1000 counts while not point at anything (sky counts) with the SpyCams turned off. This is roughly around 20 minutes after sunset or the time of twilight reported by Cosmic Debris. Here are instructions for slewing to a target and initializing the telescopes on a bright star at the start of the night: \\+ \\  \\ It is typically dark enough to lock on your first star if TT reports ~ 1000 counts while not point at anything (sky counts) with the SpyCams turned off. This is roughly around 20 minutes after sunset or the time of twilight reported by Cosmic Debris. Here are instructions for slewing to a target and initializing the telescopes on a bright star at the start of the night:
  
   * You may want to find a bright star near your first target to check the pointing of the telescopes. The [FIND STAR] button on the Telescope Control Tab can be useful in finding a suitable, bright star. There is also a printed list of bright stars in order of RA in the binder on the left side of the control room desk. If your first target is bright, then you may slew to it first.   * You may want to find a bright star near your first target to check the pointing of the telescopes. The [FIND STAR] button on the Telescope Control Tab can be useful in finding a suitable, bright star. There is also a printed list of bright stars in order of RA in the binder on the left side of the control room desk. If your first target is bright, then you may slew to it first.
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 ==== Procedure for Shutting Down at the End of the Night ==== ==== Procedure for Shutting Down at the End of the Night ====
- 
- \\ 
  
 === 6.1 End Night Sequence Introduction === === 6.1 End Night Sequence Introduction ===
  
- \\  \\ The End Night sequence on Cosmic Debris can be used to end observing and stow the telescopes, carts, and domes. It will only stow the active scopes, carts, and domes, so if there are other scopes open, make them active in the Configure tab of CD or stow them manually with the procedure below, [[:chara:operating_procedures#manually_stowing_the_telescopes|6.4 Manually Stowing the Telescopes]] \\+ \\  \\ The End Night sequence on Cosmic Debris can be used to end observing and stow the telescopes, carts, and domes. It will only stow the active scopes, carts, and domes, so if there are other scopes open, make them active in the Configure tab of CD or stow them manually with the procedure below, [[:chara:operating_procedures#manually_stowing_the_telescopes|6.4 Manually Stowing the Telescopes]]
  
 === 6.2 Start the end night sequence on Cosmic Debris === === 6.2 Start the end night sequence on Cosmic Debris ===
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   * If you use the End Night sequence to stow the telescopes and close mirror covers, remember to do a visual check of all telescopes using the check list in step 6.4 below before turning off the power for the telescopes and closing the telescope GUIs.   * If you use the End Night sequence to stow the telescopes and close mirror covers, remember to do a visual check of all telescopes using the check list in step 6.4 below before turning off the power for the telescopes and closing the telescope GUIs.
  
- \\ A list of observed targets and an Observing Report is now automatically generated as part of the End Night Sequence. Click [END NIGHT], then [REPORT] on Cosmic Debris to generate this automatic report email. The report will include the headings: PI name, Program, Observers, Baselines, Weather and Seeing data, and targets on which data was collected. Complete the Observers and Baselines entries, add comments to the bottom of the report and put your name at the end. Check with the observer for completeness of the target list. Some observers will send you comments of their own. Add those to the report. Cut and paste this into an email to CHARA Obs and send it. When the function works, you can also hit the SEND button at the bottom of the report to email this report to the CHARA OBS list. \\ Note: Classic, CLIMB, FLUOR and PAVO will automatically send the target information to Cosmic Debris after data is acquired. For MIRCx, the [DATA ACQUIRED] button can be clicked on Cosmic Debris after each data sequence is finished or it can be done by the MIRCx operator from his or her station. \\  \\ If you have other technical information to send out that is not related to the nightly observing runs, use our other lists that pertain to the subject at hand. \\  \\ In addition to paper observing logs, CHARA offers the option of using electronic logs. At minimum, we request that you fill out the date, UT time, target name, and any comments that would be relevant for subsequent reduction. This information will be useful for building and maintaining the CHARA archive: \\ [[https://sites.google.com/a/chara-array.org/chara-observing/|CHARA Electronic Logs]] \\+ \\ A list of observed targets and an Observing Report is now automatically generated as part of the End Night Sequence. Click [END NIGHT], then [REPORT] on Cosmic Debris to generate this automatic report email. The report will include the headings: PI name, Program, Observers, Baselines, Weather and Seeing data, and targets on which data was collected. Complete the Observers and Baselines entries, add comments to the bottom of the report and put your name at the end. Check with the observer for completeness of the target list. Some observers will send you comments of their own. Add those to the report. Cut and paste this into an email to CHARA Obs and send it. When the function works, you can also hit the SEND button at the bottom of the report to email this report to the CHARA OBS list. \\ Note: Classic, CLIMB, FLUOR and PAVO will automatically send the target information to Cosmic Debris after data is acquired. For MIRCx, the [DATA ACQUIRED] button can be clicked on Cosmic Debris after each data sequence is finished or it can be done by the MIRCx operator from his or her station. \\  \\ If you have other technical information to send out that is not related to the nightly observing runs, use our other lists that pertain to the subject at hand. \\  \\ In addition to paper observing logs, CHARA offers the option of using electronic logs. At minimum, we request that you fill out the date, UT time, target name, and any comments that would be relevant for subsequent reduction. This information will be useful for building and maintaining the CHARA archive: \\ [[https://sites.google.com/a/chara-array.org/chara-observing/|CHARA Electronic Logs]]
  
 === 6.3 Shutdown Checklist Introduction === === 6.3 Shutdown Checklist Introduction ===
  
- \\  \\ It is important to make sure the array gets shutdown properly at the end of the night. This includes stowing the telescopes, closing the mirror covers and domes, powering down equipment, and covering the cameras. Each day many employees are working on various systems from any number of different locations around the Array. Any CHARA equipment left on or exposed, can cause damage to other systems or be damaged itself. It is critical that the array is shut down consistently from night to night. Listed below are the procedures for shutting down the array. Please make sure that the Array is secure at the end of the night. \\+ \\  \\ It is important to make sure the array gets shutdown properly at the end of the night. This includes stowing the telescopes, closing the mirror covers and domes, powering down equipment, and covering the cameras. Each day many employees are working on various systems from any number of different locations around the Array. Any CHARA equipment left on or exposed, can cause damage to other systems or be damaged itself. It is critical that the array is shut down consistently from night to night. Listed below are the procedures for shutting down the array. Please make sure that the Array is secure at the end of the night.
  
 === 6.4 Manually stowing the telescopes === === 6.4 Manually stowing the telescopes ===
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   * Shut off lights when exiting the lab building. Return your booties to the basket if good or to the trash if they have holes in them.   * Shut off lights when exiting the lab building. Return your booties to the basket if good or to the trash if they have holes in them.
   * Make sure all doors are closed as you leave.   * Make sure all doors are closed as you leave.
- 
- \\ 
  
 === 6.8 Odds and ends. === === 6.8 Odds and ends. ===
chara/operating_procedures.txt · Last modified: 2023/09/01 02:50 by gail_stargazer

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