NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2013B-0544
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NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2013B-0544 |
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PI: Andrew Stephens, Gemini Observatory, astephens@gemini.edu
Address: Gemini Observatory, 670 N. Aohoku Place, Hilo, HI 96720, USA
CoI: Ricardo Schiavon, Liverpool John Moores University
CoI: Nelson Caldwell, Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics
CoI: Katia Cunha, Observatorio Nacional (ON/MCT)
CoI: Matthew Shetrone, University of Texas
CoI: Carlos Allende Prieto, Instituto Astrofisico de Canarias
CoI: Verne Smith, NOAO
Title: CNO Abundances in Resolved M31 Globular Cluster Stars
Abstract:
We propose to exploit the outstanding sensitivity of GNIRS with Altair to
obtain high S/N, medium-resolution JHK spectra of individual stars from one
old globular cluster in the Andromeda galaxy. We will then determine, for the
first time, elemental abundances in individual old M31 stars. We also expect
to detect, for the first time, the presence of multiple stellar populations
in an M31 cluster. The C, N, and O abundances determined in this pilot
project will pose important preliminary constraints on the history of star
formation of the M31 halo. Comparing our abundances to those of young M31
disk stars, we will obtain a first assessment of the chemical evolution of
M31 over the past 10 billion years. A possible detection of multiple stellar
populations will provide preliminary tests of model predictions for cluster
formation.
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 > 2013B-0544 |
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