Observing Applications
Perth Observatory welcomes external observers who want to exploit the isolation of its location.
Observing time is allocated on a quarterly basis. Applications must be received by the due date in order to obtain appropriate consideration for the upcoming quarter. The table below has links to current time allocations (pdf 120kB).
| QUARTER | DUE DATE |
| March - May | February 1 |
| June - August | May 1 |
| September - November | August 1 |
| December - February | November 1 |
Perth Observatory observing application forms: pdf (118kB) rtf (480kB).
Return your completed application form either by fax or .
The purpose of the application form is to guide all prospective users of Perth Observatory facilities as to what background is required by the Observatory in order to assess the scientific and/or technical merit of their proposal. The standard format allows all prospective users an equally fair opportunity to apply for time. It will also aid in the allocation of the limited resources available and serve to remind the Observatory and users of what obligations they have to each other. The application forms will also provide tangible proof of the Observatory's role in fostering astronomical research and may assist us in future funding applications.
Applications can be submitted at any time, but should be sufficiently far enough in advance to allow assessment and allocation of resources as indicated above. A reply should be returned to applicants within one month, however staffing limitations and "business cycle" requirements may extend that period, particularly in the months of June, July, December and January.
Perth Observatory staff conduct several research programmes that have been ongoing over at least a couple of years, and will continue to do so. In order to minimise duplication of resources and effort, applicants should not apply for time concerning the following projects, but instead, contact the relevant Principal Investigator in order to establish a collaboration if appropriate.
| PROJECT | PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR |
| Comet Photometry and Imaging | Lowell Observatory staff |
| Minor Planet and Comet Astrometry | James Biggs |
| PLANET (Gravitational Microlensing) | Andrew Williams / Ralph Martin |
| Supernova Search and Photometry, GRBs | Ralph Martin / Andrew Williams |
| Transient Phenomena (new minor bodies, pulsars, novae, minor planet light curves, high energy transients, etc) | James Biggs |
| Variable Star Photometry | James Biggs |
| Astronomical Evaluation of Sites in WA | James Biggs / Ralph Martin |
Please note: A successful observing application does not oblige Perth Observatory to provide accommodation, sustenance, transport, consumables etc to external applicants.
