Pre-arrival Resources
ARIZONA
IMPORTANT NOTE (SAO & Harvard)
While the Center for Astrophysics (CfA) includes both the Harvard College Observatory (HCO) and the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO) the processes in this site are specifically for SAO personnel, unless otherwise noted. Harvard has distinct processes that should be followed for any individual with a Harvard-only affiliation.
Some information contained on this site, such as building maps, general information about the worksite area, etc. will be useful to all incoming personnel.
Whipple Observatory (FLWO) / Arizona
Important Info for Arizona
Please wear only closed-toe shoes while on-site.
The site has water coolers (do *not* drink the tap water); Aside from the water coolers, there is no drink or food onsite; The nearest restaurant is ~15 minutes drive from base camp (>1 h from the summit) and has very slow service. The next option is 25 minutes, so it is strongly recommended to bring in food / drink every day.
Every exterior door at FLWO has a 5-button cypher; The door cypher codes are identical and can be provided by your contact at FLWO.
The FLWO vehicle gate is closed outside of business hours. Whipple personnel provide the code in person.
On the first day new personnel should go into the FLWO admin building annotated in the map.
All new personnel are required to read and sign a safety form, and provide a valid driver's license for vehicle usage (forms will be provided by FLWO admin / site manager).
Housing
Many AZ personnel live in Sahuarita (25 miles north), Rio Rico (20 miles south) or Tuscon (50 miles north).
Transportation
There is no public transport to or from the facility and a personal vehicle is required. For onsite travel vehicles are provided
By Car
You can get to FLWO by typing Whipple Observatory into Google Maps; 670 Mount Hopkins Rd is the street address.
On-site transportation between basecamp and the summit is provided - all personnel must sign a safety form and provide a valid driver's license for vehicle usage.
Parking
Parking at basecamp is free of charge.
Local Banking
Banking options will be dependent on your residence locality.
Child Care
SAO does not provide child care or credits.
Weather & Clothing
The sun is extremely strong (particularly at higher altitude) - it is possible to get a sunburn within ~10 minutes walking around outside, plan accordingly!. Sunblock, hats, sunglasses, and/or UV protective clothing are advised.
It will be 100 degrees at lower altitudes, but significantly cooler on the mountain top & everyone in AZ runs their AC to the max. You may counterintuitively need a sweater or something to help, despite the extreme heat. Winter weather on the mountain drops into the ~10F with snow accumulation.
Telephone & Internet Service, Electricity, Heat / Air Conditioning
Rates and providers will be dependent on your residence locality.
Facilities for Working Mothers
There are no facilities for working mothers at FLWO.
Athletic Facilities
There are no onsite / associated athletic facilities at FLWO.
Recreation
The are no specific recreation facilities or social groups at FLWO.
Map - FLWO Arizona
