Distribution of the diffuse component of cosmic soft X-rays

The celestial distribution of the intensity of diffuse soft X-rays is mapped by reference to a critical review of observations available. The soft X-rays of extragalactic origin are subtracted, taking the interstellar absorption into account. The distribution of the galactic component thus obtained shows irregularities, but the general behaviour can be accounted for in terms of a cylindrical distribution of the X-ray emissivity with the scale height of 100300 pc in the direction perpendicular to the galactic plane. Correlations with various celestial objects, such as supernova remnants, radio spurs, flaring stars, and so forth, are discussed.