Searching for the Upper Mass Limit in NGC 3603, the Nearest Giant H II Region

Details Searching for the Upper Mass Limit in NGC 3603, the Nearest Giant H II Region Searching for the Upper Mass Limit in NGC 3603, the Nearest Giant H II Region

Jul 2008

adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2008hst..prop11626m&link_type=abstract

HST Proposal ID #11626. Cycle 17

Physics

Scientific paper

What is the mass of the highest mass star? 100Mo? 150Mo? 200Mo? Or higher? Theory gives us little guidance as to what physics sets the upper mass limit, presuming one exists. Is it due to limitations in the highest masses that can coalesce? Or is it due to stability issues in such a behemoth? Observationally, the upper mass limit is poorly constrained at present, with the strongest evidence coming from the K-band luminosity function of the Arches cluster near the Galactic Center. Here we propose to investigate this question by determining the Initial Mass Function of NGC 3603, the nearest giant H II region. This cluster is known to contain a wealth of O3 and hydrogen-rich Wolf-Rayets, the most luminous and massive of stars. By constructing an accurate H-R diagram for the cluster, we will construct a present day mass function using newly computed high mass evolutionary tracks, and convert this to an initial mass function using the inferred ages. This will allow us to see whether or not there is a true deficit of high mass stars, evidence of an upper mass cutoff. At the same time we are likely to establish good masses for the highest mass stars ever determined. We have laid the groundwork for this project using the Magellan 6.5-m telescope and the excellent seeing found on Las Campanas, plus analysis of archival ACS/HRS frames, but we now need to obtain spectra of the stars unobservable from the ground. This can only be done with HST and a reburbished STIS.;

Affiliated with

Also associated with

No associations

Rating

Searching for the Upper Mass Limit in NGC 3603, the Nearest Giant H II Region does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.

If you have personal experience with Searching for the Upper Mass Limit in NGC 3603, the Nearest Giant H II Region, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Searching for the Upper Mass Limit in NGC 3603, the Nearest Giant H II Region will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1320304