Appendix A
2.4-m Telescope Startup Checklist

Observing Conditions

Verify that the conditions are suitable:

• Wind < 40 mph
• Humidity < 85% (80% for 4K detectors and OSMOS)
• No dust or threatening weather (check for dust in the light path of a flashlight in the dome)
• No water or ice on the dome, telescope, or mirror covers
• Mirror temperature well above dew point
• Mirror support is working (see 2.4-m Observer's Guide for description)

Dome

• Open dome main shutter, then the drop-out shutter.
• Open all the dome louvers.
• Open the roll-up "garage door" (the lock combination is on the dry erase board; give it a hard pull!).

Telescope & Instrument

• Open the MIS dark hatch.
• Leave the mirror covers closed until ready to collect data.
• Fill instrument dewar with nitrogen if required.
• Move storage dewar, steps, etc., away from the telescope, ensuring clear travel all around the telescope.
• Check that the moving platform is fully down and at home position.

Observing Computer (MDM 2.4m Observing Workstation 1)

On workspace 1 (this is likely to already be set up):

• Start xmis2 and Rotator (if used) using the desktop Applications>Telescope Control pulldown menus.
• Start IRAF and ds9 if desired.

• Start JSkyCalc24mGS, open sub-window "Guide Stars"

• Open bridge (from terminal type mdmTools start bridge - might take two tries to get the bridge terminal to pop open)

Telescope Control System PC

• The following systems should be open and visible:
• DFM Control System
• Environmental Data/Control
• Maxim DL Pro6
• Guider_Focus

• TheSky software package may also be open if desired, although it is often left closed to reduce processor load.

• All switches in the computer room (excepting mirror doors) should be UP.

• Turn on the Slit-Viewing Monitor (if used).