An X-ray study of the galactic center

The results from two long observations with the Einstein Observatory Imaging Proportional Counter (IPC) of an approximately 1 x 1 deg field centered near the galactic nucleus are presented. The X-ray images reveal a complex of weak sources within 20 arcmin of the galactic nucleus (Sgr A West) together with a region of apparently diffuse emission about 25 x 15 arcmin in extent. Three of the sources are tentatively identified: two with nearby galactic objects, and a third positionally coincident with Sgr A West itself (within the arcmin-accuracy available with the IPC). The nature of this source and the implications of both the high source density and presence of diffuse emission in the galactic center region are discussed.