Work

3D rotation of the open cluster NGC 2516

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: ABSTRACT We have combined Gaia astrometry with Gaia-ESO Survey radial velocities to measure the 3D rotation of the open cluster NGC 2516. We compiled a sample of 376 members with astrometry and spectroscopy and use these to determine a distance to the cluster of $406.4 \pm 0.8$ pc, which we then use to infer the 3D positions and velocities of all stars in the cluster using a Bayesian model. We identify the axis of maximum cluster rotation and measure a median rotational velocity of $0.11 \pm 0.02$ km s$^{-1}$. We find the axis of maximum cluster rotation to be $52^\circ \pm 22^\circ$ to the plane of our Galaxy. We compare this rotation rate to measurements of cluster rotation in other open clusters and find that it is inconsistent with the expected dependences on cluster age and mass.

Source: Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society

DOI: 10.1093/mnras/stag1576

Authors: Nicholas J Wright, R D Jeffries, M A Whalley

Institutions: Keele University, University of Chester

Language: English

Topic: Stellar, planetary, and galactic studies

Subfield: Astronomy and Astrophysics

Field: Physics and Astronomy

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,046

Funders: National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Entomological Society of America, European School of Oncology