ENGINEERING CAPABILITIES
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Engineering at ING in support of telescope operations and technological
developments is carried out by a
multi-discipline group of qualified engineers and technicians to meet
the defined aims of ING. The
range of skills and knowledge required and available is extensive.
Engineering is organised into specialist groups, as detailed below. Members of
different groups routinely work together in Operations and Project Teams. For
key contacts see
Engineering Contacts
Operations
Operations is undertaken by an independent group, providing the key day-to-day engineering support
of the telescopes including instrument changes, fault finding and
repairs, and
essential services such as electricity, air conditioning, heating and
cooling, compressed air and liquid nitrogen for the telescopes and
instruments. This group are also responsible for all building maintenance and modification.
Telescope operators are integral to this group. Facilities include a fully
equipped workshop, complete with CNC machines, at the observatory.
Computer Facilities
The Computer Facilities Group (CFG) provide the computing infrastructure
for use by the staff and visitors of ING. The infrastructure includes
operating systems, network and computing services, including backup and
tape copying
Control Software
The Control Software Group provide and maintain real
time operational control software systems for the telescopes and
instruments at ING. This includes telescope, and instrument control
systems together with data acquisition systems.
Telescope and Instrument
The Telescope and Instrument Group provide design, development, installation
and maintenance for electronic, control, mechanical and optical systems for telescopes, instruments
and detectors - including vacuum and cryogenic work.. Ancillary items, including
the time service, auto-guiders and acquisition TVs are also supported.
Facilities include workshops and labs both at
the observatory and sea level.
STRATEGY AND STANDARDS
The strategy of the Engineering Group is to provide all engineering
functions needed to meet the defined aims of the ING.
Due to our isolated position and the operational requirement to observe every
night of the year the emphasis is to have all necessary skills and
facilities within ING, and on La Palma. However, where adequate timely
support can be obtained externally in an economic way, work or services
will be contracted, both on-island and off.
Additionally it is recognised that collaboration with engineering groups
at other astronomical institutions is beneficial, and this is encouraged
both as part of formal agreements and on an individual basis.
Adequately trained staff are essential to ING and the training within
the engineering group is supported at all levels.
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