In the Figures below, we summarize some of the issues that make our DIMM environment relatively unsafe. With a few simple changes, we can correct these situations.

DIMM Issue 1

The DIMM tower is seen in the middle of the image. A gravel trail leads out to the DIMM that the observer must traverse in the dark. Any trip out to the DIMM in the dark will involve risk of tripping or meeting with an undesirable creature. This trip also means another climb of the steps up to the tower, involving the risk of another fall. Establishing a working DIMM regime that involves fewer trips to the tower will add greatly to our safety. In addition, keeping the trail clear of large rocks and the weeds cut back at all times will make it safer for the observers to reach the DIMM tower. CLICK ON THE IMAGE TO SEE AN EXPANDED VIEW.

DIMM Issue 2

Here we see a general view of the DIMM. The observer must reach at least one the two finder scopes located to the right of the DIMM CCD in this view. Currently, reaching the eyepiece for some observers is difficult at all but the highest altitudes. This generally involves some climbing on the pier (see below). In addition, the illuminated reticles at each eyepiece position either do not exist, or are often inoperable due to a dead battery. This usually means that at least one hand must be used to perform reticle illumination with the red flashlight. SOLUTION: Illuminated reticles, powered by a local 100AC source, should be placed on the finder scope and the DIMM CCD eyepice. CLICK ON THE IMAGE TO SEE AN EXPANDED VIEW.

DIMM Issue 3

Here we see part of the telescope pier structure. In order to reach the guide scope eyepiece, some observers must climb onto the cross-beam member of the pier. This operation is dangerous, and is made even more dangerous by the fact that both hands are usually being used at the time. The oberver must hold the telescope hand paddle AND a red flashlight to illuminate the eyepiece reticle(s). SOLUTION: Raise the level of the DIMM floor so that all observers can reach eyepiece positions without dangerous climbing. CLICK ON THE IMAGE TO SEE AN EXPANDED VIEW.

DIMM Issue 4

The DIMM laptop computer is stored the grey box seen here. It is located at the southwest corner of the enclosure. Currently the box sits on the floor. By raising the box to waist height, using a mount bracket or a simple table, we'll make it easy for the observer to see the laptop from a standing position at the telescope. There will be less bending up and down in the dark. CLICK ON THE IMAGE TO SEE AN EXPANDED VIEW.

DIMM Issue 5

In this view of the DIMM telescope mounting we see two things that can easily cause difficulty with the DIMM. Since such difficulties usually equate to another nighttime visit to the DIMM tower, the probability of an accident goes up. The cable wrap (visible in the lower part of the image) will wind up and stop DIMM tracking if it is not set correctly at the start of the evening. SOLUTION: We establish sets of NORTH and SOUTH DIMM stars, listed on the enclosure wall. The observer will use the NORTH/SOUTH designation to insure proper cable position when setting up. . A second (less frequent) problem, is that the telecope mount on/off switch (in the upper right corner of the mount control panel) is located very closely to a switch labeled N/S. Sometimes when powering down the mount at the end of the night, the N/S switch can be accidently set to S. This means the telescope is set up for use in the southern hemisphere! This can cause extra time for the next nights observer. More time in the DIMM tower means more danger. SOLUTION: Be very mindful of this mistake. CLICK ON THE IMAGE TO SEE AN EXPANDED VIEW.

DIMM Issue 6

Behind the DIMM, wedged behind a pipe, is the CCD power supply unit. The observe must reach around the pier, avoiding the laptop box on floor (see below) to switch on the CCD power. A more easily reached location for this unit near the laptop box would improve observer conditions. CLICK ON THE IMAGE TO SEE AN EXPANDED VIEW.