The current released version is Beta Patch 1 (CASA Version 2.0 Rev 4769). This patch was released on 7 April 2008.

Starting in October 2007, we are implementing a staged Beta Release of the Common Astronomy Software Applications (CASA) data reduction package. This software has been under development in support of the ALMA and EVLA project, but is intended to also be of general use for radio astronomy data post-processing. This staged release will allow personnel involved in the construction, operations, and advisory committees for ALMA and EVLA to adopt early use of the package for commissioning, development of user support capabilities, and to provide feedback to the CASA team.

Initially, through mid 2008, access to the Beta and support for CASA users will be restricted to ALMA and EVLA project personnel and key committee members in order that the CASA development will not be burdened with user support and can continue to make progress to complete the suite of basic functionality and to pursue advanced algorithm development needed for ALMA and EVLA. During this period, CASA User Support Specialists will be trained in the use of the CASA Beta Release, and in turn these specialists will train others as needed. In 2008, we plan to gradually expand the availability of the Beta Release to others in the community as our user support capabilities ramp up.

It is anticipated that CASA will remain in Beta Release until at least late 2008 or early 2009. During the beta release period, we will provide "patches" to the release on an approximately Quarterly schedule in order to fold in ongoing developments. Patches will also be made as needed to fix bugs. The first such "Beta Patch 1.0" was made available in early April. The next ("Beta Patch 2.0") will be made available in early June 2008 (in time for the NRAO Synthesis Summer school).

We are currently in "Phase I" of the Beta Release. This means that NRAO staff, ALMA and EVLA computing, science, and operations personnel, and designated ALMA, EVLA, CASA, and NRAO advisory and user committee members will be granted access to the release and to user support for the use of this release.

We apologize for any incovenience that this limited release policy may cause. However, the gradual staging of the release is necessary due to limited manpower within the project, in order to properly ramp up our User Support system and to not burden the developers. Please stay tuned as we open up to broader community use in 2008 and 2009!