AAVSO: American Association of Variable Star Observers
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Gamma Ray Bursts and X-ray Transients Recorded With Very Low Frequency Radio Telescopes (Abstract)

Volume 34 number 1 (2006)

Rodney Howe
3343 Riva Ridge, Fort

Abstract

(Abstract only) Gamma-ray Bursts (GRB) and X-ray transients recorded by satellite detection, such as the burst from SGR 1806-20, can be seen as a change in the signal strength from Very Low Frequency (VLF) radio transmitters monitored by stations around the globe. Prompt X-rays from GRB events and X-ray transients, like SGR 1806-20, ionize the upper atmosphere and modify the radio propagation properties of the Earth’s ionosphere. This presentation describes the science of radio propagation and techniques (radios, antennas, and computer recording software) used in these detections.