NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2009A-0191
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NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2009A-0191 |
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PI: Roger E. Cohen, University of Florida, cohenr@astro.ufl.edu
Address: Department of Astronomy, Bryant Space Sciences Center, Gainesville, FL 32601, United States
CoI: Ata Sarajedini, University of Florida
Title: Blue Straggler Variability in Galactic Globular Clusters
Abstract:
We propose to photometrically monitor the populations of blue
straggler stars (BSS) in four Galactic globular clusters to compliment
our previous observations of six other clusters. Through the
homogeneity of our investigation, we hope to characterize variable BSS,
including binaries and SX Phe pulsating variables, in clusters which
cover a wide range of physical parameters and which contain significant
BSS populations resolvable from the ground. Especially when combined
with existing deep HST ACS data for all of our target clusters, these
observations promise to provide valuable insight into BSS formation
processes and globular cluster dynamics as well as constrain the
properties of the host clusters. Through a variability study, we hope
to shed light on BSS formation processes as well as the relationship
between BSS populations and the physical and dynamical properties of
their host clusters, as well as refine existing distance calibrations
based on pulsating BSS.
National Optical Astronomy Observatory, 950 North Cherry Avenue, P.O. Box 26732, Tucson, Arizona 85726, Phone: (520) 318-8000, Fax: (520) 318-8360
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NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2009A-0191 |
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