Although the South Pole offers a special opportunity, it also presents a unique challenge. Our CARA experience has taught us that success on the ice requires expertise in many diverse areas. Since it is rare for individuals or even single institutions to have all of the needed skills, we have formed a well-seasoned team of astronomers and engineers. Indeed, this teaming approach is primarily responsible for the rapid success of the Abu experiment.
Our team has ample expertise in each of these key facets:

1. Antarctic Experience:

The South Pole presents unique logistical challenges both on and off the ice. Since resources are limited and the summer season short, on-ice experience is essential.

2. Instrumental Experience:

Although the technology AIRO requires is mature, nevertheless it is critical to have built and fielded infrared telescopes and cameras before. The demands of the site are sufficiently challenging; it is important to minimize the inevitable mistakes of young instrument teams.

3. Telescope Automation Experience:

To maximize productivity and efficiency, AIRO will be designed to achieve relentless, robotic observing. All facets of the telescope, the camera, the observing process, and the data processing will be automated as much as possible. This approach will free the winter-over from routine operations so that he or she may concentrate on science, repairs, and occasional maintainence.

4. Public Access:

Science is maximized when all good ideas are considered and implemented. Consequently, public access is a key component of AIRO. Unlike previous astronomical instruments at the South Pole, AIRO will be an observatory, not a PI experiment. AIRO will be a national resource open to the entire community. The transition from CARA's suite of PI instruments to a national observatory like AIRO necessitates a shift in the management structure in order to support the guest observers.