Target of Opportunity observations with MERLIN
If you want to observe an unpredictable source, such as a nova,
while it is doing something interesting, submit a Targets of
Opportunity Proposal.
Such proposals will be considered by the MERLIN TAG during its normal
meetings and the following points should be noted:-
- The target list or class of targets should be precisely defined,
e.g. 'Galactic X-ray Binary from the following list ...' or 'hitherto
unknown X-ray source exhibiting the following characteristics ...'
rather than 'X-ray burst'.
- The likelihood/rate of events for observation should be estimated.
- Usually, 1 - 4 observations of ~12 hr per semester may be requested, for up to 3 semesters.
- You should specify what constitutes a trigger.
- You should specify what frequencies are useful, and whether a
subset of telescopes is useful. If this depends on the object, make
sure we can consult you and reach a rapid decision if necessary.
- You should only request MERLIN time when MERLIN is the most
suitable instrument available. Note, in particular, that the surface
brightness should be realistically detectable (this means >>3 sigma if
the position is poorly known) and that the position should be within
the field of view.
- We will accept a trigger from any co-author on the paper; please
make sure everyone relevant is included, and that we have their email addresses. If you want to establish an
internal order of priority please make sure all the authors know how
to follow this.
Please do not hesitate to consult MERLIN staff for clarification.
Please note that it is your responsibility to inform MERLIN
(merlin@jb.man.ac.uk) when a trigger occurs. If we become aware of
a potential observation we will attempt to contact you. However if we are
unable to contact you, or if the first we hear of an event is some
days after its occurence via a separate group requesting Director's
Time, the other group may get the time.
We do not automatically observe potential TOOs without a trigger contact because you
might be using another instrument, or for some other reason not want to
use up your MERLIN time. In addition, you may have
specific observing requirements.