# LEAPS-MPS: Revealing Binary Evolution Pathways with Rubin Observatory and Gaia

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · Illinois Institute of Technology (IL) · $241,496

## Abstract

Stellar evolution theory was one of the major accomplishments of 20th century astrophysics. However, the resulting models generally apply only to single stars. Stars in binary or higher-order stellar systems can evolve completely differently, because the two stars in a binary system can interact as they evolve, often merging or transferring mass between the two components.  A researcher at the Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT) will search for such systems in 47 open star clusters using the Gaia space telescope and the Vera C. Rubin Observatory. Open clusters are ideal for this project, because their stellar constituents share the same age, initial chemical composition, and distance, making post-interaction stars easier to identify. The researcher will determine critical stellar and orbital parameters for these binary systems. The project will provide STEM training for a graduate and summer undergraduate students and also a public outreach program that conducts public daytime observing events on IIT’s campus and at local K-12 schools using a dedicated solar telescope. The graduate and undergraduate students will participate in the outreach activities, providing opportunities for them to develop science communication skills, apply knowledge from their coursework to setting up telescopes and discussing astronomical phenomena, and grow their confidence as developing scientists.

The project aims to dramatically expand the sample of star clusters that have well-characterize

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2532867
- **Awardee organization:** Illinois Institute of Technology (IL)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** E2NDENMDUEG8
- **PI:** Emily Leiner
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** OBSERVATIONAL ASTRONOMY
- **Estimated total:** $241,496
- **Funds obligated:** $241,496
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 09/01/2025 → 08/31/2027

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2532867

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2532867, LEAPS-MPS: Revealing Binary Evolution Pathways with Rubin Observatory and Gaia. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-06 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2532867. Licensed CC0.

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