ALMA FAQs

Question 1

What is the ALMA tool and how does it simplify astronomical data access?

Accepted Answer

The ALMA tool is a Model Context Protocol (MCP) server that allows you to query the ALMA (Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array) archive using natural language. It eliminates the need to learn complex TAP/ADQL syntax or API commands, letting researchers simply ask for the data they need.

Question 2

What types of ALMA data can I search for using this tool?

Accepted Answer

ALMA offers comprehensive access to the ALMA archive. You can search by astronomical object (target), celestial position, frequency range, angular resolution, proposal ID, PI, bibliography, science keywords, spectral line coverage, and even execute custom ADQL/SQL queries.

Question 3

Is ALMA compatible with other AI assistants or programming frameworks?

Accepted Answer

Yes, ALMA is designed to integrate seamlessly. It supports Claude Desktop, offers a Python API for direct use, and provides LangChain adapters for integration with various LLMs. It can also be wrapped into a REST API for broader compatibility.

Question 4

Who benefits most from using the ALMA natural language interface?

Accepted Answer

Astronomical researchers, data scientists, and anyone in the field requiring quick, intuitive access to the ALMA archive without delving into programming intricacies. It makes data discovery more efficient and accessible for non-developers.

Question 5

What are the core capabilities of the ALMA tool beyond basic searches?

Accepted Answer

Beyond basic target and position searches, ALMA can check spectral line coverage with redshift, provide ALMA reference information (bands, lines), search by sensitivity, facilitate batch multi-source queries, and allow full-text searches within proposal abstracts and publications.

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