The projected capabilities of the LCOGT are driven by the requirements of time-domain astrophysics. Our aim is to provide two complete, longitudinally-distributed rings of research telescopes, one in the northern hemisphere, and one in the south. With such a network of similar telescopes, it will be possible to follow the time variations of single objects for days or weeks with a high duty cycle. We will also be able to assure that wherever and whenever a short-lived event occurs (at least if it is reasonably far from the Sun's position), LCOGT will have at least one telescope that is in the dark and able to observe it. Finally, we intend to operate the LCOGT network as a single distributed instrument, with the telescopes being run robotically and with the observing schedule chosen to be responsive both to overarching scientific goals and to conditions of the moment.

Many domains of astronomy are natural targets for a global network, ranging from the history and structure of the solar system as revealed by trans-Neptunian objects to the history and structure of the universe as revealed by distance supernovae and gamma-ray bursts. In between, one might profitably study the photometric or radial velocity signatures of extrasolar planets, or magnetic activity and rotation in stars of varying ages, or probe physical processes in stars via their normal-mode pulsations, or the distribution of matter near supermassive black holes via reverberation mapping. All of these studies are are both exciting and possible to a network of the sort LCOGT aims to be. Likely all will be supported to some degree, though it is also a sage bet that for any given year, the bulk of observing resources will be dedicated to a small minority of these topics. Concentrated effort is often rewarded by progress, so LCOGT will attempt to concentrate its resources to whatever extent makes sense.

It is also worth reiterating the importance of collaborations and of outside use of LCOGT's facilities. If the observatory should attempt to restrict access to its own scientists, it would surely fail in its larger mission. Along with the Faulkes telescopes, LCOGT acquired obligations to provide telescope time, especially to the RoboNet consortium. These obligations will all be met, and not merely because doing so is required by contract. If LCOGT is to succeed in advancing the practice of astronomy in the time domain, it must reach out and support excellent and appropriate science. It is doing this now by way of its collaboration with RoboNet; as the observatory grows and evolves, it will continue to do so.