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public:catalinas:lemmon:schulman_32:pre-observing_check

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Pre-Observing Procedures

Before entering observatory examine the dome from the outside:

  • Is the dome completely closed at the lower/upper shutter interface?
  • During cold weather look at the back of the upper shutter for ice or snow drifts.
  • During cold weather make certain no ice is on the limit switch for the lower shutter.
  • During cold weather look at roof of entryway to make certain no snow or ice will collide with an open lower shutter that sweeps by.
  • Is the dome either at an azimuth of 180 or 60? The former likely means the dome is slaved, the latter means the dome is parked. Other positions are possible to deal with incoming weather.
  • Check the parking area for lost items and sharp objects.

When entering the observatory:

  • Open and close door behind you- Flat Field calibrations could be in progress.
  • Before turning on lights, check to see if Flat Field Panel is on. If so, assume calibrations are in progress (Contact observer. It is possible they were left on.).
  • Examine floor for evidence of drips or leaks.
  • Listen for the sound of telescope servos (if not present, and not in lightning shutdown, there may be an issue).
  • Examine both UPS devices and verify they are on.
  • Check temperature and humidity values in the dome.
  • Look at optical tape for signs of insect residue and condensation.
  • Look at drive and idler bearings for signs of the insect residue.
  • If humidity is high, examine primary mirror to see if it is fogged over.
  • Verify E-stops for telescope are not engaged.
  • Verify E-stops for dome (controller and shutter) are not engaged.
  • Check connections to TIM unit (check for snug connection for power and rotator).
public/catalinas/lemmon/schulman_32/pre-observing_check.1559934231.txt.gz · Last modified: 2019/06/07 12:03 by davner