Behind the Scenes
The End Result
Our users will not see many of the essential
Transition Program changes required for realizing savings on the non-labor budget, as
well as those enabling us to operate with a
reduced staff. Table 2 presents a brief overview of the most important of these changes. Figure 1 shows the non-labor savings
from some of them.
With the Gemini Transition Program changes largely executed, the Observatory is now
in a healthy state to move forward in a more
streamlined, efficient, cost-effective, and
energy-conscious way. The Observatory is
thankful for the universal cooperation it received during this difficult period. Gemini
is now better positioned to focus on the
Table 2. Changes “behind the scenes.”
Change
Description
Software supporting
queue operations
We have developed software that decreases the effort needed to operate the queue.
The software covers queue filling during the Time Allocation Committee process, queue
planning through visualization tools, and handling of the military’s requirement for
clearances during laser operations.
Software leading to
lower maintenance
effort
The Observatory Control System software has been upgraded and improved, primarily
to lower the maintenance effort. However, improvements in both the Phase I Tool and
the Observing Tool have greatly benefited our users.
Energy
Energy saving projects are a core component of the Transition Program. We have
installed photovoltaic panels at the telescope on Maunakea (Figure 2); in 2016 we plan
to do the same at the Base Facility in Hilo and on Cerro Pachón. We are also applying
the recommendations from an energy audit of the Gemini North facilities, which
include replacing the chillers at the summit, refurbishing the air conditioners at the
base, and replacing all lighting with LEDs. All computer rooms have been separated into
hot/cold zones. The total annual savings on our electricity costs are $400,000, while we
reduce by about 30% our reliance on utility-provided power (most of which is produced
using fossil fuels).
Base Facility space
usage
We have reduced the need for external storage at Gemini North, while at Gemini South
lab space will be converted to office space; these