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Normal Program

1. Definition

Normal Program is for observing proposals which require less than or equal to 5 nights for classical mode or 3.5 nights for HSC/PFS queue mode within a semester. ToO proposals and time-exchange proposals with Gemini/Keck are reviewed under the category of Normal Program.

2. Eligibility

Both Japanese researchers (i.e., either researchers of Japanese nationality or those belonging to Japanese institutes) and non-Japanese researchers can apply to Normal Program. Maximum 5% of total nights will be allocated to non-Japanese PIs. Non-Japanese researchers are encouraged to submit their proposals in collaboration with Japanese researchers.

If a person with both Japan and Time Exchange attributes, such as a Japanese national affiliated with a U.S. research institution, proposes to use the Subaru Telescope, he or she may choose which route to apply (however, duplicate applications from multiple routes are not allowed).

Non-Japanese PIs who have direct access to Gemini or Keck telescope must apply your Subaru proposal through the time-exchange program provided by Gemini or Keck (except for HSC filler programs). Regarding institutes which entered an MoU with Subaru/NAOJ, however, the agreement in the MoU will be exceptionally applied.

3. Available Instruments for Normal Program

Facility Instruments

Visiting Instruments/Devices

[note] Proposals to use visiting instruments/devices must include the relevant PIs as Co-investigators.

4. Notice for Normal Program

One Proposal for One Project
Even if you intend to carry out observations by using different Subaru instruments (or even by using different telescopes, such as Subaru+Keck or Subaru+Gemini) for the same scientific project(s), you must describe them only in "one" proposal. If you want to use two telescopes (Subaru+Gemini or Subaru+Keck) for the same project(s), please select the relevant option in the webform.

Please note that dividing a single scientific project into multiple proposals with slightly different stated objectives, in order to circumvent the “One Proposal for One Project” rule, is not allowed. If the proposed observations are substantially part of the same overall scientific objective, they must be included in a single proposal, even if the instruments, observational strategy, or specific targets differ. Proposals that appear artificially split may be subject to review by TAC and at risk of being rejected or deprioritized.

updated on June 18, 2025