9. Housekeeping at the Schmidt

Observers are responsible for leaving the dome and living quarters in a clean and tidy state at the end of their run.

Please try to conserve water: in dry years (i.e. most years), water has to be trucked up the mountain from Tucson.

Janitorial supplies, light bulbs etc are located in grey cupboard in entrance hallway and also in downstairs storage area.

There are recycle bins for glass and aluminum cans located in the KPNO kitchen area (hallway on way to TV room).

There is a washer and dryer in the old storage room near the bathroom. Some laundry detergent may be provided in case you have forgotten!

Checklist for End of Run

  • Turn off the dry nitrogen bottle near spiral staircase.
  • Make sure lights and heaters in dome and living area are off. There is an automatic timer for the spotlight for visitors in the dome; remember to remove the blind from the door so they can see in.
  • Trash bins in the dome and living quarters should be emptied and all trash taken to the dumpster near the helipad in the visitor parking area.
  • Throw all perishables out of the fridge and kitchen cupboard.
  • Wash and dry bed linen and towels using washer and dryer in downstairs storage area. Turn water off to the washing machine when you have finished.
  • Vacuum living quarters and dome. There is an upright vacuum cleaner downstairs and a shop vac in the dome.
  • Clean kitchen and bathroom --- cleaning supplies are in grey cupboard in entrance hallway.
  • Most important: check that you have locked the dome and living quarters and closed windows.

    8. Weather: Opening & Closing    10. Miscellaneous Useful Information