help

Difference Between Star System and Star Cluster

-- Vigo | April 30, 2022

Question:

Is there any consensus on where the line between star system and star cluster is? How many stars can a star system have before its considered a cluster? (Is a globular cluster a star system?)

-- Vigo

Answer:

In general, I believe that the term “star cluster” refers to gravitationally-bound associations of thousands of stars, while the term “star system” refers to a smaller group of gravitationally-bound stars. I am not aware of a strict boundary for the definition of either term, though. Globular cluster, though, would most definitely be called a star cluster.

-- Jeff Mangum

Facebook

Twitter

The National Radio Astronomy Observatory is a facility of the U.S. National Science Foundation operated under cooperative agreement by Associated Universities, Inc.
	Founded in 1956, the NRAO provides state-of-the-art radio telescope facilities for use by the international scientific community. NRAO telescopes are open to all astronomers regardless of institutional or national affiliation. Observing time on NRAO telescopes is available on a competitive basis to qualified scientists after evaluation of research proposals on the basis of scientific merit, the capability of the instruments to do the work, and the availability of the telescope during the requested time. NRAO also provides both formal and informal programs in education and public outreach for teachers, students, the general public, and the media.
	The U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) is an independent federal agency created by Congress in 1950 "to promote the progress of science; to advance the national health, prosperity, and welfare; to secure the national defense..."
	AUI collaborates with the scientific community and research sponsors to plan, build, and operate cutting-edge facilities. We cultivate excellence, deliver value, enhance education, and engage the public.