Title:  The Future of the Gemini Observatory

Author: Timothy C. Beers
        Dept. of Physics & Astronomy
        Michigan State University
        Chair -- Gemini Science Committee


As astronomers, we are accustomed to thinking of telescopes as portals into the
history of the Universe. However, in order to make optimal use of these tools of
discovery, it is necessary to look at least a few years into the future as well.
For roughly the past year, the Gemini Science Committee has been engaged with
discussions on the multiple future paths that might be taken by Gemini North and
Gemini South, as well as the evolution of the relationship between the Gemini
Observatory and the rest of the worldwide astronomical community. In this talk I
summarize the avenues that have been explored thus far, and comment on some of
the science drivers that will likely emerge over the course of the next decade,
which are certain to inform this discussion.