| Proposal | Title: Investigation of Variable Stars in the Globular Cluster M3
Applicant: Andreas Beck (AAVSO Member ID: banp)
Objective:
This project aims to conduct a conventional investigation of stars in the outer regions of the globular cluster M3 to identify variability. A key goal is to evaluate the extent to which variable stars can be analyzed in dense stellar regions using amateur observational methods without resorting to image subtraction techniques, such as the Alard method.
Methodology:
• Photometric analysis will be performed using PSF (Point Spread Function) fitting (using Astropy/Photutils-packages) on a large number of stars, employing suitable reference stars for calibration.
• Observations will be conducted in both the visual and infrared (IR) bands to capture a broader spectrum of stellar behavior.
• Images will be taken over three nights, spaced a few days apart, with a two-hour observation period per night.
• Each image will have an exposure time of about 30 seconds to balance signal capture and minimize saturation effects.
Observation Requirements:
• Telescope allocation for three separate nights, each session lasting approximately two hours.
• Filter sets covering visual and IR wavelengths.
• Standard calibration frames (dark, flat, and bias) for accurate data processing.
Scientific Rationale:
The globular cluster M3 harbors a rich population of variable stars, making it an ideal target for studying stellar variability. By focusing on conventional photometry methods without image subtraction, this project seeks to assess the capability of amateur techniques for resolving variable stars even in densely populated cluster regions. The results will help inform best practices for future variable star investigations in similar environments using amateur resources.
Expected Outcomes:
• Identification of variable stars in the outer regions of M3.
• Insights into the limitations and effectiveness of PSF fitting photometry for variable star detection in dense star fields.
• Contribution to the broader understanding of variable star populations in globular clusters.
Thank you for considering this application.
Sincerely,
Andreas Beck
AAVSO Member (banp)
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