Skip to content | Change text size
 

Astrophysics observational project: The dynamical evolution of globular clusters

The observational project combines theory with experiment. It contributes 8 points (equivalent to two honours lecture topics) to an overall 48 points. This project is compulsory for students enrolled in Astrophysics Honours.

Students spend 3 nights at Siding Spring Observatory doing surface brightness photometry of several bright globular clusters. These include both core-collapsed and un-core-collapsed clusters.

Aims:
To gain experience in observing and data reduction.
To fit empirical and theoretical curves to the surface of brightness data.
To study the theory of two-body relaxation and hence understand why the surface brightness profiles are similar for all un-collapsed clusters.
To use model data as input for a simple (supplied) N-body code to demonstrate that equilibrium is obtained.
To discuss the theory of long-term evolution, the phenomenon of core collapse, and the role of binary stars in the subsequent evolution.

Coordinator: Rosemary Mardling

 
For current students