Duty cycle metrics system for the W. M. Keck Observatory

摘要

We describe the system to monitor and analyze the duty cycle of observing nights at the W. M. Keck Observatory. The system is almost completely automated, and relies predominantly on existing data. Lists of discrete "events" during the night are compiled (e.g. the start of a science exposure), and the sequence of events is interpreted as an "activity" (e.g. collecting science photons). The metrics system has proven extremely valuable, allowing scientists and engineers to identify the largest causes of inefficiency, and to quantify their impacts. This has led directly to prioritization decisions in upgrades and repairs at the Observatory.