BATSE: Burst performance and experiment status

The current performance of BATSE is described, emphasizing the aspects related to gamma‐ray burst observations. Flight software modifications since launch are briefly described which affect burst data, along with the methods of distinguishing true cosmic gamma‐ray bursts from other sources of triggers. Finally, we describe a previously unreported, rare type of trigger that may have significance for atmospheric, ionospheric, and lightning research: terrestrial gamma‐ray flashes.