Electronic Data Distribution

We have recently implemented the first version of PI electronic data distribution from the Gemini Science Archive hosted at the Canadian Astronomy Data Centre (CADC). Starting 2005B, this mechanism replaces data distribution via hard-media. PIs of active programs have been notified of this change.

MOS pre-imaging programs are now also ingested into the GSA and available to PIs using their proprietary access pages. 

The data flow process is as follows. After data quality assessment, the science and calibration frames will be uploaded to the GSA. Once a week, Gemini staff will revise data ingestion and generate the "PI packages" for retrieval. Currently the PI package contains raw science data (including calibrations taken as part of the program) and ancillary files (e.g. observing logs, weather images, etc). An e-mail notification will be send to the PI (or principal contact) when data are ready for retrieval. This e-mail is copied to both the NGO and Gemini Contact Scientist. Alternatively, the PI can retrieve his/her own data, but not ancillary data, as well as any non-proprietary data already in the GSA, at any time. 

Implementation of the new "observing classes" in the OT now permits most calibrations to be directly associated with the program and therefore these will also be available within the data package. Raw (and in some cases processed) calibration data can be retrieved using the "Search Complete Catalogue" query page at the GSA web site. More details on which are the calibration frames, as well as instructions on how to generate the GSA queries, for each instrument mode are available in the calibration retrieval information. Observing logs for the shared calibrations are available from the  Gemini ftp site.

As yet, not all processed images are being distributed from the GSA.  Processed science frames are frequently obtained for some instrument modes and may be available for download from the GSA.

Please note, if you do not have a CADC user account you should create one BEFORE you attempt to retrieve your data. Without this you will not be able to download data from CADC. Go to the GSA homepage and click on Register at top-right. A simple form needs to complete and within 24 hours you will receive an e-mail confirming that your account is active.

In addition to your CADC account information, to access your PI data you will also need the Gemini Program ID (e.g. GN-2004B-Q-28) and the corresponding Phase II program key number (e-mailed you when you were notified of your successful observing time allocation).

If you are not able to download your "PI package" from the GSA due to bandwidth restrictions, please use the HelpDesk to request the data to be sent via hard-media. Hard media is restricted to DVD or DAT 3 tapes (no CDs). DVD burners/readers are not quite standard yet, please check via the Helpdesk before requesting data to be sent to you this way. Since the data will be shipped from either Hawaii or Chile, we strongly encourage PIs to use the e-distribution to avoid delays and the eventual import fees.

Last update September 29, 2005; Colin Aspin
In original form June 9, 2005; Colin Aspin