# Array Operation

Since projects are typically spread over several months, the presence of visiting astronomers when their observations are scheduled is practically impossible. In the course of observations and data processing, four “people” will play a role: the proposal PI (PI), i.e. any member of the team that proposed the observations, the local contact, the on-duty astronomer, i.e. an IRAM staff member present on the site, and the array operator. The local contact is an IRAM astronomer assigned to each project that does not have an in-house collaborator. His/her role is to help the PI in preparing the observations and in properly calibrating the data. In case of any problem, question, or doubt, the PI should contact his local contact. The PI can monitor the progress of his project on the web: http://www.iram.fr/IRAMFR/PDB/ongoing-last.html; this page is updated three times per day. Note that checking results obtained in a given configuration, making intermediate data reductions, etc. is not the responsibility of the local contact. In certain cases, and upon request, remote login to a VISITORS account on the Grenoble computers can be granted to the PI to help him/her in this task.

The array is regularly operated by one operator and one on-duty astronomer. The operator has responsibility for conducting all observations, following pre-established observing procedures or under the supervision of the on-duty astronomer in case of unanticipated events. Operators have also full authority for all safety measures. Receiver tuning is done by the operator. The on-duty astronomer must assess the data quality during the observations by monitoring the array performance on standard calibrators. The PI usually will not be present on the site, but is expected to come to Grenoble for data calibration, once the project is finished.

Subsections

- Observations
- Data Handling