The ALMA Interferometric Pipeline Heuristics

Abstract We describe the calibration and imaging heuristics developed deployed in Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) interferometric data processing pipeline, as of ALMA Cycle 9 operations. The pipeline software framework is written Python, with each reduction stage layered on top tasks toolkit functions provided by Common Astronomy Software Applications package. This supports a variety for observatory operations, including science quality assurance, observing mode commissioning, user reprocessing. It Very along NRO 45 m single dish data, via different stages heuristics. In addition to producing tables, calibrated measurement sets, cleaned images, creates WebLog which serves primary interface verifying assurance examining contents user. Following adoption Operations 2014, have been refined through annual prioritized development cycles, culminating new release aligned start observations. Initial focused basic flagging (Cycles 2–3), followed 4–5). Further refinement heuristics, introduction parallel processing, proceeded Cycles 6–7. 2020 release, algorithm identify channels use continuum subtraction was substantially improved moment difference analysis. A spectral renormalization added 2021 (Cycle 8) correct high resolution visibility acquired targets exhibiting strong celestial line emission their autocorrelation spectra. used low signal-to-noise regime were 2022 9). two most recent Cycles, 97% sets imaged ensuring long-term automated reproducibility results. conclude brief description plans future additions, self-calibration stage, support multi-configuration imaging, complete full polarization data.