Re: Archiving images

[Steve Scott <scott@ovro.caltech.edu>]

Hi everyone,

 I'm pleased that there are many similar views on the major issues. Hopefully 
that means that the ALMA requirements will converge rapidly.
 
 A few points/responses not already covered:
 
>From Al Wootten:
>1) Special purpose use of individual elements

This should be just another sub-array of a single element and as such would be 
supported. MMA #164 proposed no limit to the number of sub-arrays, so all 
antennae as individual single-dish elements should be possible.



I would suggest that Section 4 be renamed "Scheduling" and that it have three 
sub-sections with some of the following: 
1) Fixed scheduling 
   The simplest way to schedule the instrument, fixed in time (LST or UT).
   Essential for VLBI and other special events.
   Commissioning.
   Engineering tests.
2) Flexible, dynamic scheduling
   As written
3) Interactive
   The astronomer has interactive control of the instrument. Expert software is  
   better than the average user, but the expert astronomer is better than any    
   software. Observer will be allowed to return control to the queue to          
   allow for contemplation without time penalty. This mode is also ideal for     
   engineering tests. Quick feedback from the instrument is essential in this    
   mode. Remote observing will be supported. [This mode provides support for the 
   traditional millimeter-wave single dish users, like Al W.].
   
The precise mixture of fixed, dynamic, and interactive observing will be an 
operational decision that will probably evolve with time.


Steve