We at Gemini already have many ideas on
how the Observatory could optimally interplay with existing and future groundbased facilities in Chile and in Hawai‘i, as
well as support expected space missions,
such as the James Webb Space Telescope.
Lots of exciting opportunities lie ahead. In
particular, we are looking into how Gemini
North and South can optimize operations
with the suite of international telescopes
on Maunakea in Hawai‘i and the AURAmanaged facilities in Chile. We very much
look forward to incorporating these ideas
into our Strategic Plan.
We also received some excellent related
news in February. The National Science
Foundation (NSF) has selected the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA), Inc., to continue managing and operating the Gemini Observatory.
This new six-year, $208 million cooperative agreement will provide the necessary
stability for the Observatory to develop a
promising plan for the next decade.
So, please join us this year in defining our
future by sending us your best ideas for
Gemini in 2020 and beyond!
Now, Back to the Present
Meanwhile, we will continue striving to be
the best observatory in the world for the
execution of flexible, innovative, and efficient science programs. In 2016A, we are
offering three Visitor Instruments in addition to our suite of facility instrument ̸)=