Guidelines for Preparing Shane Proposals

Scientific Justification

Attach a clear, up-to-date discussion of the scientific goals of the proposed observations, including what new science will be learned, its overall astrophysical significance, and how it relates to past work in the field. Please limit the text to two pages (size 12 font or larger; single-spaced) with up to two additional pages for figures and references. Up to one additional page describing progress to date should be included if this is a resubmission. Also attach a copy of the original scientific justification.

Technical Remarks

Include the following subheadings:

1. Targets and Exposures: Specify targets or fields and their coordinates, magnitudes (if known), exposure times, and justification for lunar phase and number of requested nights.

2. Supplementary Observations: If supplementary observations from other observatories (including Keck or Space) are needed, please describe. Specify how essential are the other data for completion of program. Make clear the role of non-UC collaborators, and list time at other observatories that may be used for this project.

3. Status of Previously Approved 3-m Programs: Review status of programs approved in the past two years, including title, PI, number of allocated nights, status of data and analysis, and an estimate time to publication.

4. Graduate Students: A letter from the thesis advisor must be attached, indicating that the student is in good standing and the proposed research is part of a thesis.

Proposal Form

Estimated number of nights to complete the program refers to nights in addition to those requested in this proposal. Also indicate in the Equipment section if the assistance of a support scientist is needed for the first night (new users or if it’s been a long time).

The following are optional, but highly recommended:

1. Technical Concerns: When appropriate, specify technical concerns or problems and enough information on how they will be addressed so the TAC can evaluate the feasibility of the project.

2. Backup Program: Provide a short abstract of backup program(s) for poor observing conditions.

3. Experience and Publications: Brief account of experience of proposer(s) with instrument and science. Please provide up to a one-page list of publications relevant to proposal. Mark these using Keck or Lick data with an asterisk (*).

4. Resources and Publication Timescale: Please describe what resources such as computing and personnel and grant funds will be applied to this project. What is the expected timescale for publication?