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Introduction

The GBT spans a larger range of frequencies than other comparable millimeter/sub-millimeter single-dish telescopes, and is located in a continental, mid-latitude region where weather is dominated by water vapor and small-scale effects. As a result, weather suitable for executing high-frequency observations is at a premium.

To date, the GBT has employed a simple form of dynamic scheduling in which two projects, one high frequency and one low frequency, are scheduled together in two sessions (spaced typically by two days). The high frequency observer is allowed to choose which of the sessions they would like to use. The second is used by the low frequency observer. This scheme often results in high frequency observers receiving little or no time if they wait for truly high frequency weather, which compromises the ability to discharge these projects, and also delays completion of low frequency projects if high frequency observers choose substandard conditions to execute their observations.

An improved scheme, and the accompanying software and hardware for dynamically scheduling science on the GBT is required to make the most efficient use of telescope time, which is in high demand. This is the goal of the GBT Dynamic Scheduling System (DSS).

In addition to improving the observing efficiencies for high frequency observers, the DSS will allow for more flexible use of the GBT. This will benefit both high and low frequency observers in many ways, including:

• Observations affected by transient RFI can be halted and seamlessly rescheduled once the RFI is no longer present;
• SSystem faults (both in hardware and software) will be easier to work around, and to schedule fixes, making the running of the GBT smoother and more efficient;
• Any "make-up time" needed for a project will be easily rescheduled, allowing the observations to be completed within the requested trimester;
• Rapid Response Proposals will be scheduled without disrupting another observer's scheduled time;
• Observers will be able to state when they wish to travel to Green Bank for observations, rather than being told by the telescope scheduler when to arrive;
• Observers will be able to change their availability for observing even as the trimester progresses rather than only a few months before a trimester begins
• Observers will be able to block out many small amounts of available time (e.g. when teaching classes) rather than needing to schedule classes around the pre-existing schedule;
• Observers will have the ability to observe a small part of their allotted time and then request a few days (or more) to analyze the data before using more telescope time;
• Complicated monitoring programs will be easily handled by the DSS;
• The GBT scheduling process will be transparent, allowing users to discern the likelihood of attaining telescope time as the trimester progresses.

The main deliverable of the DSS project is the complete adoption of a significantly improved and more efficient dynamic scheduling system for all GBT telescope time. This includes delivery of all the tools necessary to make dynamic scheduling possible. While developing these deliverables, we will strive to keep ease of use high for observers, investigators, and support staff.