The paradigm that gamma‐ray bursts originate from Galactic populations is studied in detail using the BATSE angular and intensity distributions. Monte Carlo models of gamma‐ray burst spatial distributions and luminosity functions are created, then folded through mathematical models of BATSE selection effects. The BATSE Burst Catalog and the Monte Carlo Burst Catalogs are analyzed using modified statistical homogeneity and isotropy tests. Numerous catalog results are studied so that errors can be established.
Analysis of BATSE angular and intensity distributions greatly constrains origins and luminosities of bursts. No single population of Galactic Disk, Halo, or Local Spiral Arm sources satisfactorily explains BATSE observations (and burst luminosity functions are of secondary importance when considering such models). One family of models still satisfying BATSE data is comprised of sources in a spherical Galactic Corona. Coronal models are limited to small ranges of burst luminosity and core radius. Multiple‐population models work only if (1) the primary population accounts for the general isotropy and inhomogeneity seem by BATSE, and (2) secondary populations either have characteristics similar to the primary population or contain small numbers.
