The LCOGT network will consist of at least six sites around the world to create its unique capabilities to observe for 24/7 in both the Northern and Southern hemispheres. These sites include additions to Haleakala and Siding Spring next to the two Faulkes Telescopes. Other sites include Chile, South Africa, Texas, and the Canary Islands plus two more potential sites in China and Western Australia.
In the briefest possible summary: Two sites are ready for enclosures, three sites will have construction beginning within weeks, one site is in the permit process, and two sites are awaiting more data.
Haleakala, Maui (HO): Agreements and permits are currently being reviewed to build two 1-meter telescopes (one on either side of FTN) and place two Aqawans on the top of the pump room. We hope to begin construction before the end of 2011.
Siding Spring, Australia (SSO): Agreements and permits are in place to build two 1-meter telescopes behind FTS and two Aqawans to the side of FTS. Construction is scheduled to begin in early June.
Cerro Tololo, Chile (CTIO): The pads for three 1-meter domes and three Aqawans have been poured and are ready to be built up. Three domes (for the 1.0m telescopes) are already on site (assembled and painted) and the walls will be shipping in early June.
Sutherland, South Africa (SAAO): The pads for three 1-meter domes and three Aqawans have been poured and are ready to be built. Three domes (for the 1.0m telescopes) will be arriving in June and will be assembled and painted on site.
Fort Davis, Texas (UTMcD): Final site designs are being reviewed and construction is planned to begin near the end of June.
Teide, Tenerife, (TO): The agreement is in place and the designs should be signed off by the end of May. Construction is planned to begin in mid-June.
China and Western Australia: There are two possible locations near Urumqi, China and one in Western Australia near Geraldton. More data is needed for each potential site before any decisions are made.
