Proposing Observations
Community observing time is available through SAO and ASIAA time allocation processes. Proposals are accepted across all science areas.
How to Propose
The Submillimeter Array welcomes proposals from the broad astronomical community. Observing time is allocated through semiannual calls managed independently by SAO and ASIAA. Standard science proposals, large-scale projects, technical development programs, filler projects, and Director’s Discretionary Time are all available.
Prospective proposers should review the current array status, basic specifications, and planning tools before preparing a proposal. For questions about the proposal process, contact sma-propose [at] cfa.harvard.edu.
Proposal Types
Standard Science Proposals
A standard science proposal is submitted for observations for a specific observing period and overall requests are limited to 200 hrs on source in a semester per proposal. It includes a full technical and scientific justification for review by the Time Allocation Committee (TAC).
- The proposal deadline for Semester 2026A has passed.
- You may create and edit drafts of proposals from your SMA Project Account, but will not be allowed to submit them until after the next official call is open (estimated opening by February 9, 2026).
- The previous Call for Standard Science Proposals is available for reference.
- Please check the call pages each semester to learn about new advancements, developments and restrictions.
SAO Large Scale Science Projects
The SAO Large Scale Science Projects target major astrophysical questions having significant scientific impact and require more observing time than a standard proposal. The phased development, submission and evaluation process for the large scale proposals is synchronized with the review of the standard science proposals.
- A Notice of Intent is first required, in advance of the submission of a full proposal.
- Call for Large Scale Proposals
- We are not accepting SAO Large Scale proposals at this time.
SAO Technical Development Proposals
The new SAO Technical Development Proposal program solicits proposals for community-led technical initiatives, which can include hardware, software, and/or implementation of observing modes that will ultimately be of benefit to the SMA user base.
- Development proposals can be submitted at any time, after an initial discussion, and can extend for several semesters.
- It is expected that significant telescope observing time will be required for validation of science readiness.
- SAO Technical Development proposals require close coordination with SMA technical and science staff. Contact sma-propose [at] cfa.harvard.edu.
Science Observing “Filler” Projects
Available to SMA staff and IfA members only, filler projects are short observations executed during otherwise unallocated blocks of time around scheduled nightly observations. They “piggyback” on standard observations, using the same system configuration and calibration data.
- Call for Filler Proposals
- Available to SMA staff and IfA only.
Director’s Discretionary Time
Several nights of Director’s discretionary time are reserved for potential unforeseen or extraordinary targets of opportunity and other use.
- An SMA Observer Account is required prior to submission — register here.
- Contact SMA_DDT [at] cfa.harvard.edu for instructions.
- Note: SMA standard proposals are the preferred method for handling ToO projects; DDTs should be reserved for truly unforeseen/extraordinary events. A proposal for up to n events of a certain type (e.g., GRB afterglows) with locations TBD and clear triggering criteria would be best submitted as a standard science proposal.
The SMA can respond much more quickly to Targets of Opportunity if the project is evaluated and approved as a standard proposal through the normal calls.
Your Account
SMA Project Account
Create, edit, and submit proposals from your SMA Project Account. Track the status of your observations and manage your project details.
Create an Account
New to the SMA? Register for an observer account to get started with the proposal submission system.
Proposing Questions
For questions about the proposal process, deadlines, or technical requirements, contact the SMA proposal team.