US Government Shutdown Ends

Gemini was able to maintain regular operations during the 16-day shutdown of the US Federal government, until the shutdown fortunately ended on October 16. Gemini management had contingency plans in place that would have allowed critical operations to continue through November but would have interrupted some services and progress on activities. The entire international partnership contributes funds to support Gemini, but because all pass through the US National Science Foundation as Executive Agency, NSF action is required for the Observatory to access to those funds and spend on salaries and non-labor expenses. Discussions are planned for the Gemini Board meeting in November to establish procedures that will avoid these sorts of problems in the future.