Booth Id:
PHYS062
Category:
Physics and Astronomy
Year:
2021
Finalist Names:
Postiglione, Kathryn (School: Lynbrook Senior High School)
Abstract:
Studying star clusters within the Milky Way is crucial to gaining a deeper understanding
of the universe. Star clusters need to constantly be analyzed and cataloged, so changes regarding
stellar evolution in our universe can be understood and categorized. These findings will provide
scientists with essential knowledge to elucidate the mechanisms of stellar evolution within our
galaxy and beyond. To contribute to this understanding, star cluster Messier 39 (M39) was
studied using remote 12-inch telescope control at the Leitner Observatory. Once the images were
taken, code was written in Python and each star in the cluster was categorized with an associated
color b-v (temperature) value and V magnitude (brightness). This analysis produced a Color
Magnitude Diagram (CMD) found to be made of mostly population II, main sequence stars
based on comparison to the Hertzsprung Russell Diagram. Finally, isochrone fitting code was
written in Python to find the distance modulus and calculate the age of M39 to be .04 Gyr and
the distance from Earth to be 331.13 parsecs. These calculations are extremely important for
helping to advance astronomical research and will be submitted to the Milky Way Star Clusters
Catalog (MWSC).
Awards Won:
Fourth Award of $500