Cluster Properties Derived from Distribution Functions of Star Counts
Abstract
Statistical fluctuations of star count distribution functions in clusters are used to derive various cluster properties. A region containing the cluster is divided into small squares of equal size and stars within each square are counted. The field star distribution derived from outside the cluster is then statistically subtracted from the cluster area distribution in order to obtain the distribution of cluster stars. The method is applied to the determination of the approximate actual size and area distribution of stars of a faint cluster, from which it is concluded that the cluster is open rather than globular.
- Publication:
-
Mitteilungen der Astronomischen Gesellschaft Hamburg
- Pub Date:
- 1979
- Bibcode:
- 1979MitAG..45...55P
- Keywords:
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- Astronomical Models;
- Clumps;
- Star Distribution;
- Distribution Functions;
- Poisson Density Functions;
- Astronomy