The Compton Gamma Ray Observatory data stream from space is continually monitored by a computer on the ground that can detect the presence of a burst in the data, compute a coarse sky-location, and transmit this information over the Internet. Optical emission had been observed previously from GRBs, but always well after the burst's gamma-emission was no longer detectable. By this time, the optical brightness had faded to 20th magnitude or even fainter. A computer combines the four images into one and compares the scene with previous images to help locate the burst. The optical emission from GRB 990123 was so bright that it would have been visible through a pair of binoculars or a small amateur telescope - if the observer knew where to look.
Many amateur astronomers have telescopes that can reach very faint magnitudes.
Given what we known now about 990123 it seems possible that skilled amateurs, by monitoring GRB positions and searching for new counterparts, might be able to make an important contribution to gamma-ray burst research. One of the strengths of amateur astronomers is their ability to monitor positions and objects in the sky for long periods of time. Amateurs also make important contributions to searches for new comets, asteroids, and supernovae. T he next frontier for amateur research may be gamma-ray bursts. Amateurs could then train their telescopes on the GRB coordinates and begin monitoring.