Astronomer how-to

How to Write a Telescope Time Proposal

Proposals win observing time.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Proposals win observing time. In short: state; explain; justify, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. State the science question.

  2. Explain why it matters.

  3. Justify the telescope.

  4. Calculate exposure times.

  5. Show feasibility.

  6. Submit on time.

Safety reminders for astronomers

  • Follow observatory safety
  • Protect eyes when observing the Sun
  • Follow data policies
  • Take care at high altitude

Hypothesis · Peer review · Grant · Protocol · Replication · Light-year: see the full astronomer glossary.

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