Gamma-Ray Telescopes (in "400 Years of Astronomical Telescopes")

TL;DR

Over the past 50 years, gamma-ray telescopes have evolved significantly, becoming essential tools for exploring high-energy phenomena like gamma-ray bursts, blazars, and Galactic transients, advancing our understanding of the universe.

Contribution

This paper reviews the development and current state of gamma-ray telescopes, highlighting their role in high-energy astrophysics and recent technological advancements.

Findings

Gamma-ray telescopes have matured into vital research instruments.

They have enabled detailed studies of gamma-ray bursts and blazars.

Recent technological progress has expanded observational capabilities.

Abstract

The last half-century has seen dramatic developments in gamma-ray telescopes, from their initial conception and development through to their blossoming into full maturity as a potent research tool in astronomy. Gamma-ray telescopes are leading research in diverse areas such as gamma-ray bursts, blazars, Galactic transients, and the Galactic distribution of aluminum-26.