Is this project an undergraduate, graduate, or faculty project?
Undergraduate
Project Type
individual
Campus
Daytona Beach
Authors' Class Standing
Aldir Moreira, Freshman
Lead Presenter's Name
Aldir Moreira
Lead Presenter's College
DB College of Arts and Sciences
Faculty Mentor Name
Dr. Terry Oswalt
Abstract
Determining the age of any star is one of the most difficult challenges in astrophysics. Gyrochronology is the observed correlation between a star’s period of rotation and its age. We are using wide stellar binary pairs in an attempt to calibrate the rotation-age relation. Components in each pair are the same age and so should have rotation periods commensurate with the gyrochronology paradigm.
We are experimenting with a “daisy chaining” method, which has the potential to map a band of constant age across the plot of rotation period vs. color index (a proxy for age) using wide binary pairs. Preliminary results suggest the approach can establish a net pattern along a band of constant age, known as a “gyrochrone.” Once tied to absolute ages defined by star clusters, the approach may provide age estimates for single field stars.
Did this research project receive funding support (Spark, SURF, Research Abroad, Student Internal Grants, Collaborative, Climbing, or Ignite Grants) from the Office of Undergraduate Research?
No
An Empirical Daisy Chain Method for Determining Wide Binary Star Ages Based on Cluster Data
Determining the age of any star is one of the most difficult challenges in astrophysics. Gyrochronology is the observed correlation between a star’s period of rotation and its age. We are using wide stellar binary pairs in an attempt to calibrate the rotation-age relation. Components in each pair are the same age and so should have rotation periods commensurate with the gyrochronology paradigm.
We are experimenting with a “daisy chaining” method, which has the potential to map a band of constant age across the plot of rotation period vs. color index (a proxy for age) using wide binary pairs. Preliminary results suggest the approach can establish a net pattern along a band of constant age, known as a “gyrochrone.” Once tied to absolute ages defined by star clusters, the approach may provide age estimates for single field stars.