The OPT allows you to set up an observation and execute a simulation of it for MeerKAT. The ensuing simulation log provides a summary of the observation, including an estimate of the slew times and the overall observation duration including calibration. You will be able to export your setup in JSON format for future use.
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Bandpass calibrator | --> | Gain calibrator | --> | Target | --> | Gain calibrator | --> | Bandpass calibrator |
The Gaincal --> Target --> Gaincal segment can loop for up to 3 hours between Bandpass scans. (This could include multiple target/gaincal pairs.) |
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Simulate will also output the Total observation time
near the end of this log. Such outputs, for appropriately simulated dry runs of your proposed observing program, are to can be used to compute the total observing time request to be included in the science case and cover sheets of your proposal.
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