We propose a direct and model-independent method to constrain the Lorentz
factor of a relativistically expanding object, like gamma-ray bursts. Only the
measurements, such as thermal component of the emission, the distance and the
variable time scale of the light curve, are used. If the uncertainties are
considered, we will obtain lower limits of the Lorentz factor instead. We apply
this method to GRB 090618 and get a lower limit of the Lorentz factor to be 22.
The method can be used to any relativistically moving object, such as gamma-ray
bursts, blazars, and soft gamma-ray repeaters, providing the thermal component
of the emission being observed.Comment: 10 pages, 1 figur
