Assigned ID: 920 ----- Attempting Submission 1 (Sat Mar 08 00:55:21 GMT 2008) ----- We propose to carry out archival analysis of the 126-orbit dataset (GO-10424) for the WFPC2 data on the core of the globular cluster NGC 6397. As the closest core collapse cluster, this represents the best possible data to study the nature and distributions of compact binaries in the cluster. The initial task will be to derive the optical and particularly U-band variability of Chandra X-ray binaries (CVs, ABs and MSP candidates) in the cluster core, as well as a deep search for the optical counterpart of the quiescent LMXB in the cluster. The analysis will then allow the deepest search for binary periods on known and newly identified optical counterparts to the Chandra sources now found in our deepest-ever Chandra survey of NGC 6397. For comparison, a generalized binary period search will be conducted vs. radius in the cluster. This will enable the compact binary content of this cluster (primarily CVs vs. ABs) to be measured and the dynamical history of binary production vs. destruction through core collapse to be constrained.

RESOLVED STELLAR POPULATIONS 12 54000 false 0.0 0.0 false false false false false SUPPORTED