Ginga LAC Log: X-ray Astronomy Satellite Observation Logs

The GINGALOG database table contains selected information from the Large Area Counter aboard the Japanese Ginga X-ray astronomy satellite. The satellite operated from 5 February 1987 to November 1991 in a circular orbit with a 96-minute period. This catalog, prepared by NASA HEASARC from data provided by ISAS Japan, serves as a basic log pointing to archived FITS files for detailed analysis.

Use Cases

• Cataloging satellite observation sequences based on Attitude Control System (ACS) monitor values.
• Studying temporal patterns in X-ray data based on recorded major frame lengths (4, 32, or 128 seconds).
• Linking log entries to specific archived FITS files for in-depth spectral or temporal analysis.
• Comparing observation parameters with the related GINGAMODE database which tracks changes in BITRATE, LACMODE, and DISCRIMINATOR.

Strengths

• Data originates from a defined space mission with a specific operational timeframe (1987-1991).
• Provides direct pointers to archived FITS files, the standard format in astronomy.
• Describes a clear relationship with a companion database (GINGAMODE) for parameter change tracking.

Limitations

• Column-level documentation is absent; field semantics must be inferred after download.
• Row count is unknown, which may limit suitability assessment.
• Data files are in BIN and HTML formats, which may require specialized tools for access and analysis.

Provenance

Source

NASA HEASARC, from data sent by the Institute of Space and Astronautical Science (ISAS) in Japan.

Collection Method

Prepared from the LAC dump file from the Ginga satellite.

Time Range

1987-02-05 to 1991-11

Freshness

Last updated 2026-03-13 19:43:08.595530; freshness should be verified.

Geography

Space-based observations from satellite orbit (apogee 670 km, perigee 510 km, 31-degree inclination).