Stellar archaeology

Stellar archaeology is the study of the early history of the universe, based on its early composition.[1] By examining the chemical abundances of the earliest stars in the universe: metal-poor, Population II stars; insights are gained into their earlier, metal-free, Population III progenitors. This sheds light on such processes as early star formation, nucleosynthesis in stars and supernovae, and the formation processes of the galactic halo.[2][3] The field has already discovered that the Milky Way cannibalizes surrounding dwarf galaxies, giving it a youthful appearance.[4]

Not to be confused with Archaeoastronomy.
Artist's conception of the Milky Way

References
  1. "Stellar Archaeology Traces Milky Way's History". HubbleSite. 30 May 2012. Retrieved 11 February 2014.
  2. Frebel, A. (2010), "Stellar archaeology: Exploring the Universe with metal-poor stars (Ludwig Biermann Award Lecture 2009)", Astronomische Nachrichten, 331 (5): 474–488, arXiv:1006.2419, Bibcode:2010AN....331..474F, doi:10.1002/asna.201011362
  3. Nerlich, Steve (26 June 2010). "Astronomy Without A Telescope – Stellar Archaeology". Universe Today. Retrieved 11 February 2014.
  4. Brainard, Curtis (10 February 2014). "The Archaeology of the Stars". New York Times. Retrieved 11 February 2014.
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