3.1 Changeover

The programs required to observe are run within two VNC sessions:

• The XBONES session runs CAOBS, VIS, ASSISTANCE and WINDS.
• The CACCC1 session runs tasks associated with the correlator.

These should be set up before the start of observations. At Narrabri, they are set up on the PERICLES computer along with a number of additional windows with additional information and observing tasks.

Figure 3.1: Typical display from the PERICLES desktop at Narrabri

All that is usually required for hand over is discussion with the previous observer or observatory staff. The Duty Astronomer should be on hand to help inexperienced observers set up their observations.

Remote observers need to have these VNC sessions set up before the scheduled start time of their observations. See http://www.narrabri.atnf.csiro.au/observing/rem_obs.html for information on setting up remote observations.

The main observing program that the observer interacts with is CAOBS. CAOBS usually runs in a black screen with yellow writing in the XBONES VNC session. Other programs that observers need to use include CACOR, VIS and MONICA.

For details on using these programs see the caobs, cacor, SPD reference and vis sections.

To start observing, load a schedule with a strong calibrator into CAOBS and drive to the source: