ReSTAR Phase 2 Open Solicitation Process and Developments

In the previous issue of Currents, we discussed the planning process for the second three-year implementation phase of ReSTAR (Renewing Small Telescopes for Astronomical Research). As part of the planning process, NOAO has issued an open solicitation for partners to collaborate on activities that will strengthen the smaller aperture component of the US System. Such activities may include developing new instrumental capabilities, providing new open-access opportunities on observing facilities, renewing facility infrastructure, among other possibilities.

An open meeting was held on November 15 to discuss how interested groups and organizations could participate in this program. Approximately 40 people, representing 15 different facilities and organizations, attended the meeting. The attendees gave presentations about telescopes, instruments, and ideas for science themes around which a compelling case could be made for specific projects. The meeting culminated in a plenary discussion that explored ideas for collaboration. Among the items discussed were optical interferometry, adaptive optics systems for mid-size telescopes, and follow-up capabilities for time domain discoveries.

The final version of the open solicitation document is now available on the ReSTAR webpage. Proposals are due February 1, 2011. Submitted proposals will be evaluated by a panel drawn from the community and NOAO staff, including representation from the ReSTAR committee. NOAO will collaborate with the successful proposers on a funding proposal to the NSF for ReSTAR activities to be carried out during the period 2012-2014.

Attendance at the meeting is not a prerequisite for proposing, and we welcome proposals from all interested parties. Please address questions about the proposal process to restar@noao.edu. Todd Boroson will respond to inquiries received.