Massive Young Stellar Clusters in the Milky Way
Abstract
Compact young open clusters with very high masses ( M_{cl} ≳ 10^5 M_⊙) have been observed in many galaxies, and their connection to globular clusters is a matter of discussion. However, until very recently, no clusters with masses M_{cl} ≳ 10^4 M_⊙ were known in the Milky Way. Their absence was considered a natural consequence of the mild star formation rate in the Milky Way. The development of new infrared observational techniques has completely changed our perception. At present, almost a dozen young massive clusters are known in the Milky Way, and there are reasons to believe that many more wait to be found. In this paper, I briefly review our knowledge of some of these objects: the extended star-forming region Cygnus OB2, the compact young massive cluster Westerlund 1, currently believed to be the most massive young cluster in the Galaxy, and the new massive clusters hosting a large population of red supergiants found at the base of the Scutum Arm.
- Publication:
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Highlights of Spanish Astrophysics V
- Pub Date:
- 2010
- DOI:
- 10.1007/978-3-642-11250-8_17
- Bibcode:
- 2010ASSP...14..171N
- Keywords:
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- Physics