JWST Target of Opportunity Program Activation

JWST observers must submit an Activation Request to STScI in order to trigger an approved Target of Opportunity (ToO) program.  STScI evaluates the effect of the ToO's interruption on the JWST schedule and how well the observations of this event meet the approved science goals before approval and activation of the ToO.

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Requesting activation

The Principal Investigator (PI) or designated alternate initiates activation of a Target of Opportunity (ToO) proposal by submitting an activation request, which are submitted by navigating to the JWST Program Information webpage, searching for the appropriate program, and selecting the Activate a Target of Opportunity link in the Request section of the program page. In the request the PI identifies which visit (or visits) to activate and supplies all the information needed to implement and schedule the observation. This information should include target position, instrument filter/grating combinations, exposure times, and any scheduling requirements not already included proposal.

Because there may be critical implementation questions, you must let STScI know where you can be reached 24 hours a day.

After submitting the request, the PI (or alternate) must contact their Program Coordinator (PC) and verify that the activation request has been received by the Institute. The PC verifies receipt of the activation request and discusses with the PI any remaining questions on observation and scheduling requirements.



Evaluation and implementation

STScI evaluates the effect of the ToO's interruption on the JWST schedule and how well the observations of this event meet the approved science goals. The STScI Director then makes the final decision whether to activate a ToO. The CS, the PC and Short Term Planning conduct a review of the proposal to assure the safety of the observations, to verify that the program complies with the observing time allocation and to identify execution opportunities.



Related links

HST Target of Opportunity Activation Request Form

JWST Target of Opportunity Observations




Notable updates


Originally published