The system support associate model at Gemini Observatory

Marie-Claire Hainaut; Dolores Coulson

doi:10.1117/12.788332

12 July 2008 The system support associate model at Gemini Observatory

Proceedings Volume 7016, Observatory Operations: Strategies, Processes, and Systems II; 701624 (2008) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.788332
Event: SPIE Astronomical Telescopes + Instrumentation, 2008, Marseille, France

Abstract

At Gemini Observatory, the traditional employment position of telescope operator has been discarded in favor of a more diverse and flexible position known as System Support Associate (SSA). From the very beginning, the operational model of Gemini was designed to involve SSAs in observatory projects well beyond the strict operation of the telescope systems. We describe the motivation behind the original model, how it was eventually implemented and how it has evolved. We describe how the schedule allows SSAs to assume different roles within Gemini and how flexible time allows them to participate to a wide range of projects, increasing their motivation, deepening their knowledge and strengthening communication between groups, as well as allowing management to allocate resources to projects that would otherwise lack manpower. We give examples of such projects and comment on the difficulties inherent in the model.

Citation Download Citation

Marie-Claire Hainaut and Dolores Coulson "The system support associate model at Gemini Observatory", Proc. SPIE 7016, Observatory Operations: Strategies, Processes, and Systems II, 701624 (12 July 2008); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.788332

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