Proper Motions and Internal Dynamics in the Core of the Globular Cluster M71
Abstract
We have used Gemini North together with the NIRI-ALTAIR adaptive optics imager in the H and K bands to explore the core of the Galactic globular cluster M71 (NGC 6838). We obtained proper motions for 217 stars and have resolved its internal proper motion dispersion. Using a 3.8 year baseline, the proper motion dispersion in the core is found to be 179 ± 17 μas yr-1. We find no evidence of anisotropy in the motions and no radial variation in the proper motions with respect to distance from the cluster center. We also set an upper limit on any central black hole to be ~150 M ⊙ at 90% confidence level.
- Publication:
-
The Astrophysical Journal
- Pub Date:
- May 2012
- DOI:
- 10.1088/2041-8205/751/1/L12
- arXiv:
- arXiv:1203.5336
- Bibcode:
- 2012ApJ...751L..12S
- Keywords:
-
- astrometry;
- globular clusters: individual: M71 NGC 6838;
- methods: data analysis;
- stars: kinematics and dynamics;
- Astrophysics - Solar and Stellar Astrophysics;
- Astrophysics - Galaxy Astrophysics
- E-Print:
- 5 pages, 4 figures, accepted for publication in Astrophysical Journal Letters