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Science Scheduler Documentation

Documentation Version: 2.16 | Last Updated: March 2026 Server v3.6.0 | Plugin v3.8.0.0

Welcome to the Science Scheduler documentation. This system provides automated multi-observatory observation scheduling and coordination for observatories using NINA — from educational programs and remote hosting facilities to professional research networks.

New here? Start with the System Overview to understand how the Science Scheduler works.

Quick Start

I want to... Start here
Set up the NINA plugin Plugin Setup
Register my observatory Observatory Registration
Create observations Creating Observations
Organize observations into projects Projects Guide
Configure autofocus Autofocus Guide
Configure guiding Guiding Guide
Manage calibration frames Calibration Guide
View my observation files Observation Files
Set up cloud storage External Storage
Set up notifications Notifications
Manage my profile User Profile
Manage my observatory Observatory Administration
View reports Reporting Guide
Fix a problem Troubleshooting

For Observatory Operators

If you're setting up an observatory to connect to the Science Scheduler:

  1. Plugin Setup - Install and configure the NINA plugin
  2. Observatory Registration - Register with the server
  3. Observatory Administration - Manage members, dispatching, and automation
  4. Scheduler Features - Understand how scheduling works

For Users Submitting Observations

If you're using the web interface to submit observation requests:

  1. Getting Started - Quick orientation
  2. Creating Observations - Submit your first observation
  3. Projects Guide - Organize observations into projects
  4. Observation Files - View and download FITS files
  5. Practical Guide - Detailed procedures
  6. Notifications - Get alerts when observations change state

For Administrators

If you're managing organizations, users, or the system:

  1. Organizations - Create and manage organizations
  2. Observatory Administration - Member permissions and observatory controls
  3. Calibration Administration - Manage calibration frames and settings
  4. System Administration - Database integrity, backups, and system tools
  5. Log Analysis - AI-powered log diagnostics

What's New in v2.16 (March 2026)

  • Announcements (MOTD) — Observatory, system, organization, and project announcements with acknowledgment tracking
  • Flexible targeting — System announcements can target all users, or specific users, observatories, organizations, and projects
  • Login interception — Pending system announcements must be acknowledged before users can proceed
  • System Announcements — Dedicated admin page with categorized tables and status filtering

See the Changelog for full details.

Feedback

Found a bug or have an idea for improvement?

© 2026 First Light Observatory Systems LLC