Mehrfachsternsystem

A Mehrfachsternsystem, or multiple star system, is a stellar system containing two or more stars that are gravitationally bound to each other. These systems are common in the universe, with binary systems (two stars) being the most frequent type. Systems with three or more stars are called triple, quadruple, or higher-order multiple star systems.

The stars in a multiple system orbit a common center of mass. The orbital dynamics can be complex, especially in systems with more than two stars. Often, these systems are hierarchical, meaning that pairs of stars orbit each other at closer distances, and these pairs then orbit each other at larger distances, or orbit a more distant third star. This hierarchical arrangement helps to stabilize the orbits and prevent the system from dispersing over time.

Multiple star systems are important for understanding stellar evolution and formation. The presence of companion stars can influence a star's life cycle, affecting its mass, rotation, and the rate at which it evolves. Eclipsing binary systems, where one star passes in front of another from our perspective, are particularly valuable as they allow astronomers to determine stellar masses and radii with high accuracy. Studying the motions of stars in multiple systems also provides direct evidence for the existence and behavior of black holes and neutron stars, as they can exist as components within these systems.