What it is:

The National Virtual Observatory (NVO) is part of an international effort to link the major astronomical databases (radio, optical, X-ray, etc.) together. The project is in the early stages of development, but promises to be a very powerful tool for both professional and amateur astronomers when completed. See the NVO website for details of the CfA's effort towards this goal.

The SMA's Contribution:

The SMA plans to request that Principal Investigators (PIs) provide final images or other data products to the NVO at the end of the CfA's proprietary period (15 months from date of observation). The request would be made of the PIs at the proposal stage and as a condition for observing. Details and logistics of implementation have not yet been discussed.