HST Data Handbook for WFPC2

1.1 Archive Overview

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The HDA contains all HST observations ever made. It also contains a database that catalogs and describes these observations. There are currently two ways to search and retrieve data from the HDA. The first is a program called StarView, which acts as an interface to the HDA. StarView currently runs as Java-based, stand-alone application that can be downloaded from the web site http://starview.stsci.edu. Previous versions of StarView, such as XStarView, are no longer available. The second search and retrieval method is through the HST section of the MAST web site, http://archive.stsci.edu. StarView is the more powerful of the two methods, and in particular allows an examination of the calibration files applied to a given data file. StarView also provides an interface to the Visual Target Tool (VTT) in the Astronomer's Proposal Tool (APT) suite of programs. The VTT interface can display archive observations on a Digital Sky Survey (DSS) image alongside planned observations. StarView is thus recommended for observation planning, duplication checking, calibration file review, investigation of On-The-Fly Reprocessing flags and proprietary status. It is also recommended for those needing to retrieve large numbers of datasets, and those needing to examine calibration files. The MAST web site interface to the HDA has the same basic capabilities as StarView, and may be preferable for those requiring simple retrievals of datasets. Both StarView and the MAST web site allow simultaneous searches of the other MAST mission archives for all HDA searches. They also offer simple preview of the capabilities of HST datasets when available, as well as links to literature references citing a given dataset, using the Astrophysics Data System (ADS). In later sections we discuss StarView and the MAST web site in more detail.

1.1.1 Archive Registration

The simplest way to register and retrieve HST data is to complete the form on the Web page at: http://archive.stsci.edu/registration.html.

Registration requests may also be sent to the HDA hotseat, at: archive@stsci.edu.

The PI of each HST proposal must request proprietary access for their data, and for anyone else whom the PI wants to have access to it. PI retrieval permission is not granted automatically, for security reasons. PIs wishing to allow others access to their proprietary data should make that request to archive@stsci.edu.

When registration is granted, your account will be activated within two working days, and you will receive your username and password via e-mail.

1.1.2 Archive Documentation and Help

The MAST web site provides a wealth of useful information, including an online version of the HST Archive Manual available at http://archive.stsci.edu/hst/manual/. Investigators expecting to work regularly with HST and other datasets supported by MAST should also subscribe to the MAST electronic newsletter by sending an e-mail to archive_news-request@stsci.edu and putting the single word subscribe in the body of the message. Questions about the HDA can be directed to archive@stsci.edu, or by phone to (410) 338-4547.