1. Celebrating 1000 Gemini papers
The one-thousandth scientific paper based on Gemini data has been
published. The result was the discovery of new diffuse interstellar
bands at infrared wavelengths, adding 13 to the roughly 500 other
bands that had previously been identified in the optical and infrared.
Tom Geballe (Gemini) and colleagues identified the new features in
absorption along lines of sight toward the Galactic Center, publishing
the results in Nature (subscription required). None of the diffuse interstellar bands have been conclusively tied to a specific element or molecule since their
discovery 90 years ago, although recent work suggests that the carriers are carbon-containing molecules.
The Observatory will continue to celebrate the milestone of 1000
papers through the end of the year. We will revisit some of the top
science results and images with "Gemini Gems," both here and on Facebook.
2. Gemini Science and User Meeting, July 17-20, 2012
Save the date for the Gemini Science and User Meeting, to be held July
17-20 in San Francisco, California. The meeting will feature a
variety of scientific results based on Gemini observations. Special
sessions will offer users important venues to discuss future
instrumentation needs for the long-term, and to identify immediate needs
of current users.
3. First meeting of the Science and Technology Advisory Committee
The Gemini Science and Technology Advisory Committee (STAC) has
concluded its first meeting, which occurred November 7 and 8 at the
base facility in La Serena, Chile. This committee replaces the Gemini
Science Committee, advising the Gemini Board on policy matters of
long-rance scientific and technical importance. More information
about the committee and its membership is available. The STAC will provide crucial
advice about future capabilities and developments, including a new
instrument start to initiate during 2012. Do not hesitate to
communicate with your STAC representative about your requirements for
Gemini!
4. Gemini Town Hall at Austin AAS
Gemini will host a town hall discussion during the American
Astronomical Society meeting in Austin, Texas. The event is scheduled
for Tuesday, January 10, 2012, from 12:45-1:45PM, in Ballroom F.
Please attend, bringing questions and comments! Gemini will also have
a booth in the exhibition hall, where staff will be available to
discuss recent developments and work with users. We will feature new
proposing and observing tools, along with data reduction updates.
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