UAF FAQ

How do I get the facilities to take data for me?

• Scientific experiments can be conducted by one or more of the facilities simultaneously based on the observational requirements of the proposed experiment. Potential users are encouraged to use the UAF-Experiments mailing list to discuss their potential needs with members of all the facilities directly. Experiments which involve a small number of the facilities can usually be coordinated by contacting a representitive of the individual facilities directly. Experiments involving a large number of the facilities are usually scheduled as part of World Day operations periods. This scheduling is done a year in advance and details on this can be obtained by contacting the current URSI ISWG coordinator. Some of the facilities operate all the time (i.e. SuperDARN) while others have a great deal of competition for observation time (e.g. Arecibo) so there can be quite a bit of difference in scheduling experiments with different requirements.

Where does all the data end up?

• The data taken by the facilities is all made available using web based database systems. Most of the facilities currently provide their data via the Madrigal database. Madrigal is a distributed database and queries made to one site can be directed to search all sites for the desired data. All data from the incoherent scatter radars is currently archived in the CEDAR database which is operated by UCAR. SuperDARN makes both its archival and near realtime data available online.

What are the rules for using data from the UAF facilities?

• Use of the data from the UAF Program Facilities is generally subject to the CEDAR Database Rules-of-the-Road. Prior permission to access the data is not required. However, the user is required to establish early contact with any organization whose data are involved in the project to discuss the intended usage. Data are often subject to limitations which are not immediately evident to new users. Before they are formally submitted, draft copies of all reports and publications must be sent to the contact scientist at all data-supplying organizations along with an offer of co-authorship to scientists who have provided data. This offer may be declined. The Database and the organizations that contributed data must be acknowledged in all reports and publications, and whenever this data is made available through another database. Interpretation of data from the UAF facilities can often be complex and it is highly recommended to involve facility Scientists when using and interpreting information produced by the facilities.

Is there somewhere I can try Wiki editing without making a mess?

• You can use the OpenSandbox page to try any kind of Wiki editing that you want. You will need to login and be added to the GeneralGroup access control list in order for editing to work.