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Inverse Compton Origin of the Hard X-ray and Soft gamma-ray Emission from the Galactic Ridge

Journal Article · · Astrophys.J.682:400-407, 2008
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1086/589615· OSTI ID:939111
A recent re-determination of the non-thermal component of the hard X-ray to soft {gamma}-ray emission from the Galactic ridge, using the SPI instrument on the INTErnational Gamma-Ray Astrophysics Laboratory (INTEGRAL) Observatory, is shown to be well reproduced as inverse-Compton emission from the interstellar medium. Both cosmic-ray primary electrons and secondary electrons and positrons contribute to the emission. The prediction uses the GALPROP model and includes a new calculation of the interstellar radiation field. This may solve a long-standing mystery of the origin of this emission, and potentially opens a new window on Galactic cosmic rays.
Research Organization:
Stanford Linear Accelerator Center (SLAC)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE
DOE Contract Number:
AC02-76SF00515;
OSTI ID:
939111
Report Number(s):
SLAC-PUB-13211; arXiv:0804.1774
Journal Information:
Astrophys.J.682:400-407, 2008, Journal Name: Astrophys.J.682:400-407, 2008 Vol. 682; ISSN ASJOAB; ISSN 0004-637X
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English