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Scripting with AstroGrid
This page introduces scripting or programming methods for accessing the Virtual Observatory through AstroGrid.
Writing a script or program to access the Virtual Observatory through AstroGrid enables the user to automate a relatively simple but repetitive and laborious task or, to create an extremely complex task which would be difficult to achieve by using the graphical interface alone. AstroGrid currently supports scripting using the Python programming language, and scripting through the AstroGrid developed Workflow engine. The AstroGrid Workflow engine is currently in the process of being replaced by a far more powerful system and we encourage all new users of AstroGrid to write scripts in Python. Please read the following sections for more information.
Python
Python is a high level programming language which is very easy to learn and can be used for a wide range of applications; in recent years it has become increasingly popular in astronomy. No special tools are required for programming in Python and executing the programs merely requires a recent version of the Python interpreter to be installed (available on Windows, Linux and Mac OS X). If you wish to write scripts to access AstroGrid from Python then please read the detailed introduction (which includes how to install the interpreter) by clicking the link below.
AstroGrid Runtime XML-RPC Interface - of use to those who are writing python scripts using the XMLRPC interface
The Workflow Engine/Builder
As indicated in the introduction, AstroGrid are currently in the process of replacing the workflow engine and builder with a far more powerful system. If you are new to scripting with AstroGrid then we would ask you to read the section about scripting with Python or wait for the announcement of the new workflow engine. Current users of AstroGrid workflows (including The Science Workflows) must be aware that if a particular workflow requires the JES (Job Execution Service) then is unlikely that the workflow will run and if it does, it will take a very long time. Below we include some useful links to aid those AstroGrid users who are still using the AstroGrid workflow.
Introduction to the Workflow Builder
Introduction to the VO Lookout
Introduction to the MySpace Browser
The following documents are located on external sites.
Introduction and Overview of the Workflow
The Science Workflows
The AstroGrid Science Workflows provide a ready made series of complicated tasks linked together so that you only have to provide some simple constraints to obtain the data. The workflows are accessed by clicking the "Science Workflows" button under the "Data Analysis" tab on the AstroGrid workbench. Follow the links below for more information.