Update on Band 2 for early proposal planning for Cycle 13

As indicated in the 'Announcement for early proposal planning for Cycle 13' news item, this announcement provides further information on the availability of Band 2 to assist with early proposal planning for Cycle 13.

New in Cycle 13:

Band 2 (67–116 GHz) is anticipated to be offered on the 12-m Array from the start of Cycle 13 (October 2026). As with previous new band introductions (e.g Band 1), the exact start date and number of available antennas may be subject to operational and technical constraints. Based on current receiver integration progress, up to ~43 Band 2 receivers may be available at the start of the cycle.

Band 2 capabilities offered are expected to include:

• Dual-polarization (i.e. total intensity) observing modes available on the 12-m Array, excluding Solar and Pulsar/VLBI.
• On-axis / narrow-field linear and circular polarization, with performance and uncertainties comparable to other ALMA bands.

As with all ALMA operations, the Band 2 offering remains subject to factors such as weather conditions, ongoing receiver integration activities, and overall resource availability. If needed, ALMA may operate with a reduced number of Band 2 antennas or introduce the band later within Cycle 13.

Full details will be published in the Cycle 13 Call for Proposals.

Band 2 Science Verification data is expected to be released prior to the call opening. Band 2 Science Verification targets were previously announced in the 'New Targets for Science Verification: Band 2' news item.