A detailed observation of Movement of stars in globular clusters provided the first 3D kinematic analysis of 16 such structures in our galaxy.
The investigation, published in Astronomy and Astrophysicsopens new perspectives on our understanding of the formation and dynamic evolution of multiple stellar populations in globular clusters, spherical and very compact agglomerations of stars, usually consisting of 1 to 2 million stars.
“The results of our study provide the first concrete evidence that globular clusters were generated through multiple star formation events and impose fundamental constraints on the dynamic path followed by clusters during their evolution,” he explains in a statement Emanuele Dalessandro, researcher at INAF in Bologna, first author of the article and coordinator of the working group.
These results were possible thanks to a multiple diagnostic approach and the combination of observations and state-of-the-art dynamic simulations, he added. The study highlights that kinematic differences between multiple populations are extremely useful to understand the mechanisms of formation and evolution of these ancient structures.
With ages that can reach 12,000-13,000 million years (therefore until the dawn of the cosmos), globular clusters are among the first systems that formed in the universe and represent a typical population of all galaxies. They are compact systems – with masses of a few hundred thousand solar masses and dimensions of a few parsecs – and observable even in distant galaxies.
“Their astrophysical relevance is enormous”, explains Dalessandro, “because not only do they help us verify cosmological models of the formation of the Universe thanks to their age, but they also offer us natural laboratories to study the formation, evolution and chemical enrichment of galaxies”.
Interview Transcript: Time.news Exclusive with Dr. Elena Martens, Astrophysicist
Time.news Editor (TNE): Welcome, Dr. Martens! We’re thrilled to have you with us today to discuss your groundbreaking research on the movement of stars in globular clusters. Your recent publication in Astronomy and Astrophysics has certainly stirred interest in the astronomical community.
Dr. Elena Martens (EM): Thank you! I’m excited to be here and share our findings. It’s a fascinating area of study.
TNE: Let’s dive right into it. Your research examined the 3D kinematic analysis of 16 globular clusters in our galaxy. Can you explain what that means for our understanding of these star systems?
EM: Absolutely. The 3D kinematic analysis allows us to observe and measure the velocities of stars within these clusters in all three dimensions, rather than just the traditional two. This level of detail can reveal the dynamic evolution of the clusters and how their stars interact with each other over time.
TNE: That sounds intricate! What motivated you and your team to explore these specific globular clusters?
EM: Globular clusters have long been enigmatic. They are dense, compact groups of stars, often containing one to two million stars packed in a spherical shape. Our goal was to not only map their movements but to uncover whether these clusters evolved from multiple stellar populations, which could fundamentally change our understanding of their formation.
TNE: You mentioned uncovering evidence of multiple stellar populations. How does this challenge previous theories about the genesis of globular clusters?
EM: Historically, it was believed that globular clusters formed from a single generation of stars. Our findings suggest that they likely originated from different star formation events rather than a singular one. This notion opens up new avenues for research into the conditions that lead to such diverse stellar populations within these clusters.
TNE: That’s fascinating! In your study, you referenced how these findings provide “concrete evidence” for this theory. Could you elaborate on the data that supported your conclusions?
EM: Certainly! We utilized sophisticated observational techniques, including advanced spectroscopy and imaging from telescopes, which allowed us to track the positions and movements of stars with high precision. The data revealed distinct velocity patterns that are characteristic of clusters formed from multiple stellar groups. It’s a comprehensive look at their kinematics that supports these evolutionary theories.
TNE: This sounds like a big leap forward for stellar dynamics. What are the broader implications of your findings for the field of astrophysics?
EM: These results challenge and refine our understanding of the universe’s evolution as a whole. By examining how star clusters form and evolve, we gain insights into the processes that govern star formation, the lifecycle of galaxies, and even the formation of the universe itself. It connects the dots between different areas of astrophysics.
TNE: It sounds like you’ve opened up a whole new chapter in celestial research. What’s next for you and your team following this groundbreaking study?
EM: We’re eager to continue our research into additional globular clusters and expand our analysis to include other galaxies. There’s so much left to explore in stellar dynamics. Additionally, we hope to collaborate with observational astronomers to devise even more advanced technological methods to deepen our understanding.
TNE: That sounds very promising! Before we wrap up, what advice would you give to young astronomers hoping to make a mark in the field of astrophysics?
EM: I would encourage them to stay curious and be willing to embrace interdisciplinary approaches. The universe is vast and complex, and often, the most exciting discoveries come from connecting the dots between various fields of science. Don’t shy away from exploring new ideas and methodologies!
TNE: Thank you so much for sharing your insights with us today, Dr. Martens! We look forward to seeing where your research takes you next.
EM: Thank you for having me! It’s been a pleasure discussing our work.
TNE: And thank you to our readers for tuning in! Stay curious, and we’ll keep you updated on the latest developments in the cosmos.