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AnastasiaKWei

skyportal-mcp

get_source_host_galaxy

Retrieve the host galaxy associated with a specific astronomical source, returning its properties, angular separation, and physical distance from SkyPortal's galaxy catalogs.

Instructions

Retrieve host galaxy information for a source.

Returns the associated host galaxy from SkyPortal's galaxy catalogs, including angular separation (offset) and physical distance.

SkyPortal can link sources to host galaxies from catalogs like GLADE+. If a host association exists, this returns the galaxy's properties.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
source_nameYesSource identifier - can be SkyPortal obj_id, ZTF name, or TNS name (e.g., "ZTF21aaaaaaa")

Output Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
resultYes
Behavior3/5

Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?

No annotations are provided, so the description must convey behavioral traits. It discloses that the result depends on a host association and lists specific data returned (angular separation, physical distance). It does not explicitly state read-only status, error handling, or what happens when no association exists, leaving some gaps.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Conciseness5/5

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

The description is four sentences, front-loaded with the main purpose, and every sentence adds context (function, return content, association condition). No redundant wording.

Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.

Completeness4/5

Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?

With an output schema present and a simple single-parameter operation, the description adequately covers the tool's conditional behavior and scope. It lacks explicit error-case or permission info but is sufficient for basic selection and invocation.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Parameters3/5

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

The single parameter source_name is fully described in the schema (100% coverage), so the description adds no additional parameter semantics. Baseline 3 applies.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Purpose5/5

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

The description uses a specific verb ('Retrieve') and resource ('host galaxy information'), clearly distinguishing it from sibling get_source_* tools that return other data types. It further specifies the returned content (angular separation, physical distance).

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Usage Guidelines3/5

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

The description implies the tool is used when host galaxy association is needed, and the conditional 'If a host association exists' gives some context. However, it does not explicitly contrast with alternatives or provide when-not-to-use guidance.

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.

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