Designing an experiment

• Writing a good science case
  • Clear objectives (test some idea; identify an object in a new band; ...)
• Basics
  • Frequency - particular spectral line(s); considerations affecting choice of continuum band (spectrum; variation of polarization with frequency).
  • Spatial resolution and maximum scale of structure. Wide-field issues (primary beam; need for mosaic; confusing sources)
  • Spectral configuration (one or more lines; resolution; continuum; ...)
  • Working out the surface brightness
  • Where can relevant archive data be found?
• Choice of instrument
  • Which instrument(s)/configuration(s) are needed?
  • Single-dish data needed?
  • How much time?
  • Adequate coverage and signal to noise ratio?
  • Measurement accuracy?
• Other issues for the technical justification
• Calibration strategy
  • is self-calibration possible;
  • how important is good astrometry?
• Timing constraints and conditions?
  • Observations simultaneous on different instruments?
  • Good observing conditions needed?
• Proposal tools and where to find them