Analyzing gamma-ray burst spectral data

The paper describes an improved method for calculating gamma-ray spectra of gamma-ray bursts. This method is independent of any assumed model for the incident spectrum. In many cases it makes it possible to perform chi-squared model fitting without detailed knowledge of the instrument response functions. The results of extensive calculations using simulated data and realistic response functions are presented; the Backus-Gilbert technique produces model-independent spectral estimates that are quantitatively accurate and easy to calculate.