%\input{declarations.tex}

%\begin{figure*}

%\begin{minipage}{460pt}


\section{Large observing programs}
\label{Large}
%{\scriptsize (as updated by JMW, PCox 18-Feb-09)}\\[2ex]

IRAM offers  the possibility to apply for observing time in the
framework of a {\it Large Program} for the 30-meter telescope 
and the Plateau de Bure interferometer. 

A Large Program should require a minimum of 100 hours of
observing time, spread over a maximum of two years, i.e. 4 contiguous
semesters. In the next two years, IRAM will accept a limited number of
Large  Programs to be carried out per semester and instrument 
(30-meter and Plateau de Bure interferometer), allocating a maximum of
30\%  of observing time to such projects.

The Large Program should address strategic scientific issues leading
to a breakthrough in the field. Large Programs should be coherent
science projects, not reproducible by a combination of smaller normal
proposals.

The Large Program proposals should contain a solid management plan
ensuring an efficient turnover, including data reduction, analysis,
and organization of the efforts.

Because of the large investment in observing time, but also of the
inherent support from IRAM,  it is advised that 
Large Programs involve one or more IRAM internal collaborators.

During the execution period of the Large Programs (ideally before 
mid-term), the
team leading the Large Program should report to IRAM about the
preliminary results and possible technical difficulties, so that IRAM
could assess the progress made, assist with any problems encountered
in the course of the observations, and, if needed, 
adjust the program scheduling.

The proprietary period ends 18 months after the end of
the last scheduling semester in which the Large Program was
observed. The raw data and processed data then enter the public
domain. An extension of this proprietary period may be granted in
exceptional cases only. A corresponding request will have to be
submitted to the IRAM director.

Because of the scope of the Large Programs and the need to explain the
organization of the project, Large Program proposals will have a
maximum length of 4 pages (not including figures, tables, or
references), instead of the 2 pages for normal proposals. Large
observing program proposals should be submitted using the
standard proposal templates; just check the ``Large Program'' bullet
on the cover page. The following sections should be included: i)
Scientific Rationale, ii) Immediate Objective, iii) Feasibility and
Technical Justification, and iv) Organizational Issues. For the
Plateau de Bure interferometer,  the latter section must include a
consideration of sun avoidance constraints and configuration
scheduling.

The scientific evaluation of the Large Program proposals will be done by the
Program Committee at large (all 12 members, except if there is a
direct implication of one the members in the proposal). External
reviewers will be asked to evaluate Large Programs, if needed.
In addition to the scientific evaluation, there will be an assessment of 
the technical feasibility by IRAM staff.

Note that a Large Program will either be accepted in its entirety or
rejected, there will be no B--rating (``backup status'') nor a partial
acceptance/rejection of the proposal.

For the summer semester 2009, the call for Large Programs will be open
for the 30m telescope and the Plateau de Bure interferometer.
For the 30m telescope, Large Programs may consider using HERA and
MAMBO, as well as EMIR with the exception of its 0.9\,mm band. 

\signed{Pierre Cox}


%\end{minipage}
%\end{figure*}

%\end{document}
