Nature of gamma-ray bursts.

Data from the Vela and Uhuru satellites are cited in arguing that gamma-ray bursts are most likely due to high-energy X-ray emissions from binary stars consisting of an eruptive dwarf star associated with a pulsar. Since the observed maximal energy of the bursts is less than 1.5 MeV, a nuclear origin for the gamma-ray emissions appears to be ruled out. Evidence related to such eruptive variables as the U Geminorum, T Tauri and UV Ceti stars, as well as novae, is mentioned in developing the argument.