Spectral indices of Galactic radio loops between 1420, 820 and 408 MHz

Abstract

In this paper, the average brightness temperatures and surface brightnesses at 1420, 820 and 408 MHz of the six main Galactic radio-continuum loops are derived, as are their radio spectral indices. The temperatures and surface brightnesses of the radio loops are computed using data taken from radio-continuum surveys at 1420, 820 and 408 MHz. We have demonstrated the reality of Loops V and VI and present diagrams of their spectra for the first time. We derived the radio spectral indices of Galactic radio loops from radio surveys at three frequencies (1420, 820 and 408 MHz) and confirm them to be non-thermal sources. Diameters and distances of Loops I-VI were also calculated. The results obtained are in good agreement with current theories of supernova remnant (SNR) evolution and suggest that radio loops may have a SNR origin.