The Birth of Star Clusters, 1st ed. 2018 Astrophysics and Space Science Library Series, Vol. 424

All stars are born in groups. The origin of these groups has long been a key question in astronomy, one that interests researchers in star formation, the interstellar medium, and cosmology. This volume summarizes current progress in the field, and includes contributions from both theorists and observers. Star clusters appear with a wide range of properties, and are born in a variety of physical conditions. Yet the key question remains: How do diffuse clouds of gas condense into the collections of luminous objects we call stars?

This book will benefit graduate students, newcomers to the field, and also experienced scientists seeking a convenient reference.

Dr. Stahler is a research astronomer at the University of California, Berkeley, and a prominent theorist in star formation. He is also the co-author, with the late Francesco Palla, of a graduate-level textbook on the subject.

Addresses a fundamental question in astrophysics: how do diffuse clouds of gas condense into the collections of luminous objects we call stars?

Summarizes modern research into birth of stars in clusters

Offers observational and theoretical perspectives on how star clusters arise, both in various regions of the Milky Way as well as distant galaxies