The Gamma-Ray Burst Coordinate Network (GCN) is a computer
service that receives alerts about GRBs from a myriad of space-bourne
and ground-based instruments and immediately distributes those results
around the world (and off it) via automated email, internet socket,
cell phone, and alphanumeric pager messages. It is because of this
network that it is even possible for automated robotic telescope
systems to respond quickly to GRB detections.
The GCN also provides an email mailing list for the rapid distribution
of current results regarding contemporary GRB observations, so
scientists can inform their colleagues in an up-to-the-minute fashion
as to what their instruments are showing, which in turn will aid other
scientists in choosing how to stage their own observations.
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