A genetic algorithm for ground-based telescope observation scheduling

A prototype genetic algorithm (GA) is being developed to provide assisted and ultimately automated observation scheduling functionality. Harnessing the logic developed for manual queue preparation, the GA can build suitable sets of queues for the potential combinations of environmental and atmospheric conditions. Evolving one step further, the GA can select the most suitable observation for any moment in time, based on allocated priorities, agency balances, and realtime availability of the skies' condition.