NGC 2168, also known as Messier 35 or M35, is an open star cluster located in the northern constellation Gemini. It was first discovered by Philippe Loys de Chéseaux in 1745 and later independently discovered by John Bevis in 1750. The cluster is estimated to be around 150 million years old and contains over 500 stars.
NGC 2168 REDDENED NGC 2168 DE-REDDENED
In a recent study by Boris V. Kozhurina-Platais et al. in 2018, NGC 2168 was used to investigate the properties of open star clusters in the Milky Way galaxy. The study utilized data from the Hubble Space Telescope and the Gaia space observatory to create a comprehensive catalog of the cluster’s stellar properties, including their ages, distances, and chemical compositions.
To study NGC 2168 and investigate the relationships between the colors, brightnesses, and the age and chemical composition of the cluster as a whole, I collected images in various filters using PROMPT2, PROMPT5, PROMPT-USASK, and PROMPT-MO-1. With the total of 15 images, I used filter B, V, R with exposure time of 56s, 36s, 21s respectively. Each image was taken an hour apart. After getting the images, I used afterglow to collect the data and then analyze those data using Cluster Pro Plus. From Cluster Pro Plus, I was able to find the following information about NGC 268.
Graph generated using Cluster Pro PlusUsing Cluster Pro Plus, I was able to a lot of information about NGC 2168 including HR Diagram, Motion in RA, Motion in Dec, Distance, Log(Age), Age, Metallicity, and E(B-V). One of the interesting results of this analysis was the identification of several blue straggler stars within the cluster. These stars are believed to have formed through interactions between binary stars or mergers between stars, leading to their unusually high luminosities and hotter surface temperatures. Additionally, analysis of the data revealed a number of giant stars within the cluster, which can be used to help refine our understanding of stellar evolution.
Close-up of the Messier 35 open star cluster, showing its blue stars. Credit: Wikisky
There was also a study of NGC 2168 made by Milky Way Star Cluster Catalog which was done long time ago. Below is the comparison of my results vs MWSC results
My results MWSC
| Motion in RA: 2.216 +- 0.476 mas/yr | Motion in RA: 2.216 +- 0.476 mas/yr |
| Motion in Dec: -2.848 +- 0.403 mas/yr | Motion in Dec: -2.848 +- 0.403 mas/yr |
| Distance: 0.78 kpc +- 20% | Distance: 0.83 kpc +- 20% |
| Log(Age): 7.21 | Log(Age): 8.255 |
| Age: 16218100.97 yr | Age: 16218100.97 yr |
| Metallicity: -1.73 | Metallicity: 0.26 |
| E(B-V): 0.47 | E(B-V): 0.26 |
The study of NGC 2168 has provided me a wealth of information about open star clusters, including their ages, distances, and chemical compositions. This information is crucial for understanding the formation and evolution of stars and galaxies, and can provide a better understanding the history of the universe as a whole.
In addition, the data obtained from this study can be used to explore a wide range of astrophysical phenomena, from the formation of planetary systems to the evolution of stars and galaxies. For example, the proper motion data collected can help identify stars that are members of the cluster, and the color-magnitude diagram can provide insights into the ages and masses of these stars.
Moreover, the techniques and methods used in this study can be applied to other star clusters and astronomical objects, enabling myself to learn even more about the cosmos. The results of this study may also inspire new research questions and avenues of investigation, leading to further discoveries and advancements in our understanding of the universe.
Overall, I had very enjoyable experiences when working with star clusters. I somewhat got to see the beauty of these celestial objects and learned the complexities of the universe. During the process, I’ve gained a lot of knowledge that I definitely need in my future study.
Reference:
Messier 35 – the NGC 2168 Open Star Cluster – Universe Today