STARS 2.0: 2nd-generation open-source archiving and query software

Tom Winegar

doi:10.1117/12.789832

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12 July 2008 STARS 2.0: 2nd-generation open-source archiving and query software

Tom Winegar

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Proceedings Volume 7016, Observatory Operations: Strategies, Processes, and Systems II; 70160M (2008) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.789832
Event: SPIE Astronomical Telescopes + Instrumentation, 2008, Marseille, France

Abstract

The Subaru Telescope is in process of developing an open-source alternative to the 1st-generation software and databases (STARS 1) used for archiving and query. For STARS 2, we have chosen PHP and Python for scripting and MySQL as the database software. We have collected feedback from staff and observers, and used this feedback to significantly improve the design and functionality of our future archiving and query software. Archiving - We identified two weaknesses in 1st-generation STARS archiving software: a complex and inflexible table structure and uncoordinated system administration for our business model: taking pictures from the summit and archiving them in both Hawaii and Japan. We adopted a simplified and normalized table structure with passive keyword collection, and we are designing an archive-to-archive file transfer system that automatically reports real-time status and error conditions and permits error recovery. Query - We identified several weaknesses in 1st-generation STARS query software: inflexible query tools, poor sharing of calibration data, and no automatic file transfer mechanisms to observers. We are developing improved query tools and sharing of calibration data, and multi-protocol unassisted file transfer mechanisms for observers. In the process, we have redefined a 'query': from an invisible search result that can only transfer once in-house right now, with little status and error reporting and no error recovery - to a stored search result that can be monitored, transferred to different locations with multiple protocols, reporting status and error conditions and permitting recovery from errors.

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Tom Winegar "STARS 2.0: 2nd-generation open-source archiving and query software", Proc. SPIE 7016, Observatory Operations: Strategies, Processes, and Systems II, 70160M (12 July 2008); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.789832

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