Weather Limits
3-meter observers should be aware of the following conditions which limit or prevent operations of the telescope. Note that these limits are only guidelines.The decision to open or close the dome is entirely at the discretion of the telescope operator.
Wind Limits
| Average (MPH) | Persistent Gusts (MPH) | |
| Into Wind | 35 | 40 |
| Crosswind | 40 | 45 |
| Downwind | 45 | 55 |
Humidity
94% or at the telescope operator's discretion based on blowing fog, condensation on dome and handrails, etc..Ash
Telescope Operator must close if airborne ash from a forest fire is deemed a threat to the optics.Snow on Dome
If snow has accumulated on the dome and not been shoveled, the telescope operator will keep the dome closed to prevent snow from falling or blowing onto the telescope.Lightning
If distant lightning can be seen but no thunder heard, there is no immediate threat and observing may continue provided there is no danger of rain. If lightning is 10 miles away or less (about 50 seconds from lightning to thunderclap), there may be a danger of a strike. Telescope operator can stop observations to shutdown critical electrical systems as his or her discretion. Wait at least 30 minutes after the last audibule thunderclap before declaring the storm passed and resuming operations.Last modified: Thu Jan 24 16:20:11 PST 2008