BATSE was a high energy astrophysics experiment in orbit around Earth on NASA's Compton Gamma-Ray Observatory. The primary objective of BATSE was to study the phenomenon of gamma-ray bursts, although the detectors also recorded data from pulsars, terrestrial gamma-ray flashes, soft gamma repeaters, black holes, and other exotic astrophysical objects.

BATSE responded to, or triggered on, sudden changes in count rates above background levels. It was also capable of detecting less impulsive sources by measuring their modulation using the Earth Occultation technique. View a typical one-day orbit of the Compton Gamma-Ray Observatory.

The Compton Gamma Ray Observatory was removed from orbit by NASA on 4 June, 2000 bringing to an end the successful 9-year CGRO mission. During its operation, BATSE recorded 8000 triggered events.

Data from the GRB spectral catalog compiled by Adam Goldstein are available for download in the BATSE Spectral Catalog.

Here are some images from GRA group photographs taken on April 26th 2000. Group Photographer: Michael S. Briggs