Advanced tools, multiple missions, flexible organizations, and education

摘要

In this new era of modern astronomy, observations across multiple wavelengths are often required. This implies understanding many different costly and complex observatories. Yet, the process for translating ideas into proposals is very similar for all of these observatories. If we had a new generation of uniform, common tools, writing proposals for the various observatories would be simpler for the observer because the learning curve would not be as steep. As observatory staffs struggle to meet the demands for higher scientific productivity with fewer resources, it is important to remember that another benefit of having such universal tools is that they enable much greater flexibility within an organization. The shifting manpower needs of multiple-instrument support or multiple-mission operations may be more readily met since the expertise is built into the tools. The flexibility of an organization is critical to its ability to change, to plan ahead, and respond to various new opportunities and operating conditions on shorter time scales, and to achieve the goal of maximizing scientific returns. In this paper we will discuss the role of a new generation of tools with relation to multiple missions and observatories. We will also discuss some of the impact of how uniform, consistently familiar software tools can enhance the individual's expertise and the organization's flexibility. Finally, we will discuss the relevance of advanced tools to higher education.