One of the nice aspects of the modern high level of computer control and automation of telescopes is that sometimes you can get data just by sending in a script and then sitting back and watching, in your armchair at home, as the observations come in. But it doesn’t always work that way.
Over the last week I’ve had observations attempted several times for a particular high priority project, only to see them weathered out. Last weekend they had to close because of 60 mile an hour winds on the mountain.
They’re trying again today, and I just checked the reports to find that they’re now having technical troubles with the control system.
Excuse me while I sit here and chew my fingernails…
