Subject: Static or Dynamic Observing Algorithms?

From: Robert Nemiroff

Submitted: Tue, 22 Apr 2003 16:13:39 -0400

Message number: 112 (previous: 111, next: 113 up: Index)

Static or Dynamic Observing Algorithms?

Given even a single science goal over a small period
of time, I would like to wonder aloud whether LSST 
should follow a "static" or "dynamic" observing algorithm. 
A static observing algorithm is simple and repetitive.  A 
dynamic observing algorithm changes observations 
based on things like the weather, the location of the 
Moon, the location of the Galactic plane, and newly 
discovered transients.

"Static" is simple and less likely to mess up, but 
"dynamic" should yield a higher science return.

Here is how this might work.  Before each night, a
Monte Carlo program is run scrimmaging candidate 
observing algorithm trials.  Inputs to the program 
include primary and secondary science objectives,
likely atmospheric conditions, Moon position, targets
of opportunity that remain from previous nights and/or
other instruments, the availability of smaller telescopes
that transients can be "handed off to" were they to be
discovered, and the likely number of transients 
discovered ("Tile vs. Stare").  The program finds an 
optimal observing algorithm for that night.  The result 
should of course be checked by a real human to make 
sure the telescope does not point at the floor the whole 
night.

When in action, LSST can adapt this algorithm 
("calling an audible") as weather conditions becomes 
better known, as weather conditions change, and as 
new targets of opportunity come into play (either 
discovered by LSST itself, or over the Internet by an 
orbiting GRB monitor, etc.).  The "booty" at the end
of the night is compared to the expected returns as
scrimmaged and the observing algorithm may be 
tweaked as need be.

Thoughts?

- Robert Nemiroff



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