Analysis of the Prompt Optical Emission of the Naked-Eye GRB 080319B

Abstract

We present the observed/intrinsic optical parameters and the variability analysis of the Naked-Eye Burst, GRB 080319B, observed by the TORTORA wide-field optical monitoring system. The event is extreme not only in observed properties but also intrinsically: it is the most luminous event ever recorded at optical wavelengths. The temporal properties suggest short-lived periodic activities of the internal engine. This is the fastest optically variable source detected at cosmological distances.

4 pages, 1 figure, proceeding of the "Neutron Stars and Gamma-Ray Burst, Recent Developments and Future Directions" conference, Egypt, March 30 - April 4, 2009