Dr. Stahler will continue a theoretical study of the formation of stellar clusters and associations. He plans to do this through a combination of semi-analytic calculations and numerical, N-body simulations. Two parallel investigations will be conducted: 1) An exploration of how stellar groups form within contracting molecular clouds; and 2) A study of the history of stellar open clusters. The research will involve a multi-pronged attack on the origin of stellar groups, and will provide insight on other fundamental issues, such as the evolution of molecular clouds and the global efficiency of star formation in galaxies.
During the period of the award, Dr. Stahler will be a Shapley Lecturer for the American Astronomical Society and will give both public and professional talks at small, undergraduate institutions. He is also contracted to write a popular-level book on the origin of stellar groups, and will teach an adult education course on star formation.
