MDM Trouble Report for 2010 Dec 31

Telescope: 1.3m
Observer(s): Bord (UofM)
Instrument: CCDS

Problem(s) Encountered:
Could not open because of dome and shutter icing.  Dome would not
rotate either left or right, despite having done so successful in
the afternoon when attempting to melt snow and ice by orienting
slit towards the sun.  Initially, main shutter would not open 
despite application of power to motors (as indicated by illuminated
red 'power' light).  After repeated attempts over the
course of an hour, main shutter did open, but then hung up after
opening about a third of the way.  Was never able to open dropout.
After several open/close cycles, was finally able to close main
shutter.  At this point, after consulting with the 2.4-m observer, opted
to forgo any further attempts to open to avoid possible damage to
dome rotation and/or shutter motors and danger of derailing the
shutter from track.  Without any technical assistance available
until Monday, decided discretion was the better part of valor.
Will wait until ice melts with coming of warmer weather. (Note:
Only lost a part of the night due to late start
associated with instrument problems
having to do with re-positioning the grating tilt to better
center the wavelength range.  Resolved this issue after consultation
with Kate Grier (OSU).)

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Submitted on 2010 Dec 31 [2:45:03]