XCATSCAN -- A Catalog Scanning Tool
XCATSCAN is an interactive software tool for scanning Infrared
Astronomical Satellite (IRAS) databases and other catalogs, and extracting
parameters for sources which meet specified criteria. The point-and-click
user interface is available for remote access over the Internet from
computers running X/Windows, and it is designed especially for scientists
who wish to make queries of IRAS databases in conjunction with other major
astronomical catalogs. Catalogs may be queried by specifying location on
the sky (position and search radius, coordinate ``boxes,'' or IRAS source
name), constraints on data fields (e.g., fnu_60 > 10.5), and positional
associations between IRAS sources and objects in other catalogs. Catalog
columns may be easily queried by filling in a table, or by direct entry of
constraints in Structured Query Language (SQL). The results may be saved
as ASCII or FITS tables and transferred via FTP to your computer for
analysis.
New features include the ability to upload coordinate lists (private
catalogs) via anonymous FTP and scan the on-line catalogs for positional
matches, improvements to the user interface, and availability of the
Infrared Space Observatory (ISO) Guaranteed Time Observers (GTO) Targets
List, the third addition of the Catalog of Infrared Observations (CIO)
(Gezari, Schmitz, & Mead 1993), and the Catalog of Positions and Proper
Motions (PPM).
Access Instructions
You will need a computer that runs X-Windows (such as Motif, Open Windows,
DEC Windows, or other X11-compatible window system, but not SunView).
The Workstation must be connected directly to the INTERNET.
Connect to IPAC with the command:
After you answer a few questions, the main XCATSCAN menu will appear on your
screen. The interface is self-documenting, and will guide you through
your query, with the use of help buttons.
If you have any questions, please send email to
xcatscan@ipac.caltech.edu
Last updated 24-May-1994