Binary Star Systems

All binary star systems have the same basic type of orbit. There is a center of mass located somewhere in between the two stars around which each star orbits. This center of mass is the point where the stars' masses are equal and it is always closer to the more massive star. There are a few basic ways to observe binary systems. Binary systems can be viewed visually, spectroscopically, or when they eclipse. Click on the path icon in this interactivity to learn more about binary star systems.

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Star Clusters

There are two types of star clusters; globular clusters and open clusters. Globular clusters are tighter groupings of stars. These clusters can contain hundreds of thousands of stars. Open clusters are loosely clustered groupings of stars containing less than one hundred members. Generally, stars are much younger in a globular cluster. Take a few moments to look at the images below. Many of the differences between the two types of clusters can be easily identified.

Images Courtesy of NASA

 

Binary Star Systems Review

Now that you have studied binary star systems and clusters, check your knowledge in this non-graded activity. Read each definition and drag and drop the correct term into the blank provided. Then, click SUBMIT to check your response. Click the interactivity thumbnail, and then click NEXT to get started.