Concept study of an observation preparation tool for MICADO

MICADO, the near-infrared Multi-AO Imaging Camera for Deep Observations and first light instrument for the European ELT, will provide capabilities for imaging, coronagraphy, and spectroscopy. As usual, MICADO observations will have to be prepared in advance, including AO and secondary guide star selection, offset/dither pattern definition, and an optimization for the most suitable configuration. A visual representation of the latter along with graphical and scripting interfaces is desirable. We aim at developing a flexible and user-friendly application that enhances or complements the ESO standard preparation software. Here, we give a summary of the requirements on such a tool, report on the status of our conceptual study and present a first proof-of-concept implementation.