Resolved stellar populations of super-metal-rich star clusters in the bulge of M 31
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Date
2000
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Abstract
We have applied the MCS image deconvolution algorithm (Magain et al. 1998) to HST/WFPC2 V, I data of three M 31 bulge globular clusters (G170, G177, and G198) and control fields near each cluster. All three clusters are clearly detected, with an increase in stellar density with decreasing radius from the cluster centers: this is the first time that stars have been resolved in bulge clusters in the inner regions of another galaxy. From the RGB slopes of the clusters and the difference in I magnitude between the HE and the top of the RGB, we conclude that these three clusters all have roughly solar metallicity, in agreement with earlier integrated-light spectroscopic measurements. Our data support a picture whereby the M 31 bulge clusters and field stars were born from the same metal-rich, gas, early in the galaxy formation.
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methods : data analysis, galaxies : formation, galaxies : individual : M 31, galaxies : spiral, galaxies : star clusters, galaxies : stellar content