Doug Simons (Gemini) Title: Update on Gemini Observatory Abstract: Gemini Observatory, which only recently entered its science operations phase, is at the nexus of a wide range of science and technology initiatives that will make it one of the world's premier O/IR astronomical facilities well into the next decade. Next generation instruments which are about to be deployed include the world's first multi-conjugate laser AO system (MCAO), a multi-slit cryogenic infrared spectrometer (FLAMINGOS-2), and an advanced dual channel coronagraphic imager (NICI). The future promises to be even more exciting and challenging through Gemini's Aspen instrument program, the first element of which features the Gemini Planet Imager (GPI). In this presentation I will summarize some recent science highlights from Gemini Observatory using our current instrument suite, describe a few lessons learned from the "inside" of a large international partnership like Gemini, and outline our strategy for ensuring that Gemini functions as a discovery gateway for years to come.