COVID-19 Update

The up-tick in Hawaii COVID case counts noted in the last e-Newscast reversed itself in the first two weeks of May, and new cases are currently running at a few per day on the island of Hawaii. Approximately 50% of the island population has now been vaccinated (first shot), though there are signs that this is slowing. Operations at Gemini North continue largely unchanged, with a reduced day crew on the mountain and night crew separated between two control rooms at the Hilo Base Facility. 

In Chile there are good indications that the number of new COVID cases is trending downward. The vaccination efforts are progressing well. Telescope operation has continued as before, with strongly restricted presence on the summit and in the offices, and the night team working from separate rooms. But given the positive trends, we may see some relaxation in the near future.