Science Operations Announcements
Gemini North Shutdown Aug 10-31 to repair bottom shutter
The Gemini North enclosure bottom shutter experienced a drive shaft bearing failure in one of the two driveboxes during the night of July 27, similar to what happened to the Gemini North enclosure top shutter in 2014. The next day, the day crew locked out the bottom shutter at a position that has limited the telescope lower elevation to 38 degrees above horizon, while we continue to observe at night.
Observing databases offline July 26
The Gemini observing databases will be offline for several hours on Tuesday July 26 while we perform software updates.
The latest version of the 2016B Observing Tool (2016B.2.1.1) will be required to access the observing databases after the update. Please synchronize any outgoing changes before the update, as the old OT will not be able to communicate with the new databases.
Special proposals require 2016B PIT
In preparation for the start of 2016B, all Director's Discretionary (DD) time and Poor Weather (PW) proposals must use the 2016B Phase I Tool (PIT). See the PIT Version Table for more information and download links.
2016B Programs and Schedule Announced
2016B OT Released
The 2016B Gemini Observing Tool is now available for download. This update is required to access the Gemini Observing Databases.
The Installation Instructions are linked off of the Observing Tool web page, and we recommend that everyone download their programs from the databases rather than import from saved XMLs.
Observing databases offline June 2
Update 2016 June 6 @ 14:00 HST:
The Gemini North update is complete.
Update 2016 June 6 @ 8:00 HST:
The Gemini North update is in progress...
Update 2016 Jun 3:
The Gemini South update is complete.
Gemini to support AstroConda in place of Ureka later this year
STScI has today announced AstroConda, a distribution of Python and IRAF packages that is intended to replace Ureka, based on Continuum Analytics' Anaconda.
Gemini South observing database offline briefly March 12
Special proposals require 2016A PIT
In preparation for the start of 2016A, all Fast Turnaround (FT), Director's Discretionary (DD) time, and Poor Weather (PW) proposals must use the 2016A Phase I Tool (PIT). See the PIT Version Table for more information and download links.