Stars and clusters
Abstract
The origins, evolution and fates of the various stars and star clusters in the Galaxy are surveyed. The structure and composition of the Galaxy is discussed, and the Hyades cluster is presented as a model for other star clusters located further from the sun. Consideration is given to the chemical compositions of stars in various stages of evolution, and to the physics of this development. The pre-main-sequence, main sequence and post-main-sequence stages in stellar evolution as determined from observations of clusters are then examined, with attention given to supergiants, Cepheid variables and red giants. The characteristics of the oldest open clusters are discussed, and the relationship between the open clusters and the structure of the Galaxy to which they belong are considered. Globular clusters are then introduced, including metal-rich globular clusters and red and short-period variable stars contained within them, and the final stages of the lives of stars of various masses are indicated. The development of the poorest possible star cluster, the binary star, is also discussed, and a complete atlas of stars, nebulae and clusters to a magnitude of 6.05 is presented.
- Publication:
-
Cambridge: Harvard University Press
- Pub Date:
- 1979
- Bibcode:
- 1979stcl.book.....P
- Keywords:
-
- Astronomical Maps;
- Galactic Structure;
- Main Sequence Stars;
- Star Clusters;
- Stellar Evolution;
- Variable Stars;
- Galactic Evolution;
- Graphs (Charts);
- Open Clusters;
- Star Distribution;
- Stellar Luminosity;
- Stellar Models;
- Stellar Temperature;
- Astronomy;
- STARS;
- STAR CLUSTERS;
- INTRODUCTIONS