APO 3.5m observations of targets identified from SDSS data have produced some of the most exciting results from both of these ARC projects to date. In apparent recognition of this fact and (presumably) in response to proposal demand, the institutional TACs which allocate the large majority of 3.5m time are devoting an increasing fraction to SDSS follow-up projects. Nevertheless, it seems to me that it would be valuable to have a small amount of 3.5m time set aside especially for the purpose of fast reaction observations by anyone with SDSS data rights. The idea is to be able to move faster than the quarterly 3.5m allocation and scheduling cycle normally allows and to provide opportunities independent of the particular institutional share (if any) of 3.5m time a proposer can otherwise access. Therefore, as an experiment, I have set aside 2 nights of 3.5m DD time in 2Q2000 for this purpose. The time is designated DD03 and is scheduled for the half nights 5/7B, 5/26B, 6/25A and 6/26A (3 dark and 1 gray). (This includes the effect of one swap which is not yet represented on the published/web schedule.) I will assign this time to specific projects based on requests which should be sent directly to me by email. It will probably be most convenient to use the standard ascii template for 3.5m scheduling requests (see apo35-general message #419) since one would eventually have to be filled out anyway if the time is allocated to the project. I will aim to make the allocations a few (4-7) days in advance of the actual observing time. Proposals may be for projects that already have institutional allocations of 3.5m time or not, and may be made by anyone with SDSS data rights regardless of institutional affiliation (including those at institutions which do not have a share of 3.5m time). The criterion will be to maximize the scientific impact of both telescopes. I may seek informal advice from (disinterested) colleagues concerning the choice of programs, especially if demand is high. Although follow-up of SDSS observations is the main motivation for this program, the time could be assigned for use on non-Sloan targets-of-opportunity (SNe, GRB afterglows, TNOs...) if the case for doing so seems sufficiently compelling. Such proposals should be submitted in the same way. If this experiment seems productive, it may be continued and perhaps expanded in subsequent quarters. Ed Turner APO APO APO APO APO Apache Point Observatory 3.5m APO APO APO APO APO This is message 425 in the apo35-general archive. You can find APO the archive on http://www.astro.princeton.edu/APO/apo35-general/INDEX.html APO To join/leave the list, send mail to apo35-request@astro.princeton.edu APO To post a message, mail it to apo35-general@astro.princeton.edu APO APO APO APO APO APO APO APO APO APO APO APO APO APO APO APO APO