Star cluster

A star cluster is a gravitationally bound collection of stars that formed from the same interstellar cloud. These structures are broadly categorized into open clusters, which are typically younger, loosely defined groups of stars, and globular clusters, which are highly dense, ancient formations found primarily orbiting larger galactic structures. The study of stellar clusters provides crucial observational data regarding stellar evolution, star formation rates, and the overall dynamics of the parent galaxy. Because stars within a cluster share a common origin and age, analyzing the metallicities and radial velocity dispersions of the constituent stars allows astrophysicists to understand the physical conditions prevalent during their formation.