Instructions for new 1.2m telescope observers:

• Familiarize yourself with the F. L. Whipple Observatory site. In particular, visit the links to the 1.2m (48in) telescope and to the visiting astronomer guide.
• Familiarize yourself with the Keplercam CCD camera.
• Arrange to arrive at Mt. Hopkins preferably two days, or at minimum, one day before your observing run, for training with Keplercam and the 1.2m telescope. Start by contacting Sue Demski-Hamelin at OIR to organize your trip. She will need to know whether you are a Harvard student; if you are, your trip may be covered by Harvard. If you are not, your observing will likely be covered through a grant. If SAO/OIR will cover your trip, you need to be appointed a no-fee consultant, be added to the SAO Peoplesoft database, and have your ticket issued by the SAO Travel Office. You will need to contact FLWO for a dorm room at least 1 week in advance of your run and for a taxi from Tucson to FLWO and back yourself at least 2 days before you travel (see the visiting astronomer guide for details). If you do not drive, please let us know as soon as possible before traveling, so we can arrange for your rides up and down the mountain.
• Check the schedule of the 1.2m ("Local telescope schedules," from the 1.2m telescope main web page) and contact the observer who will be observing before you. Contact him or her by email before you come out, to coordinate your training. If the run that precedes yours is remote, you will need to train with the 1.5m observer (usually Perry Berlind or Mike Calkins), who will assist but will be busy with the 1.5m at the same time. Daytime staff will also be glad to answer any questions.