Array Configuration Schedule

The SMA configuration schedule is driven primarily by two factors:

• the relative numbers of requests for different configurations in approved observing proposals
• the right ascension distribution of approved observing targets in different configurations
• the availability of antennas, subject to maintenace and increasingly upgrades (such as new cryo systems and site infrastructure) beginning in 2024

The array configuration schedule for 2023B is:

Compact --> Extended --> Subcompact --> Extended --> Very Extended --> Compact

UPDATE 8 Jan 2024: For planning purposes, we expect semester 2024A will begin at the normal time (mid May 2024); however, two large scale programs are highly concentrated in the RA range of 16-20hr, and time available in 2024A at the beginning of the semester (through May and June) may be restricted. Details will be forthcoming in the 2024A Call for Proposals, by early February.

The current timeline for 2023B, subject to change, is:

Semester 2023B Configuration Schedule
configuration	start	end
compact	16 Nov 2023	16/23 Jan 2024
extended	18/25 Jan 2024	13/20 Feb 2024
subcompact	15/22 Feb 2024	19/26 Mar 2024
extended	21/28 Mar 2024	16 Apr 2024
very extended	19 Apr 2024	30 Apr/7 May 2024
compact	3/10 May	end of semester*

Reconfiguration of the array typically requires 2 to 3 days, including antenna moves and recalibration. Schedule is subject to change.