VFTS 16

VFTS 16, is a massive O-type star located in the Tarantula Nebula within the Large Magellanic Cloud. Identified as part of the VLT-FLAMES Tarantula Survey, it is one of the most massive known stars, with an estimated mass of approximately 100 solar masses. VFTS 16 is a confirmed runaway star, ejected from the young massive cluster R136 early in its lifetime, and is currently situated in a low-density region approximately 120 parsecs from its origin. Another massive O-type star, VFTS 72, is found to be a runaway star.

Observation

VFTS 16 was cataloged during the VLT-FLAMES Tarantula Survey, which studied massive stars in the 30 Doradus region. Its runaway status was confirmed using Gaia DR2 astrometric data, which demonstrated significant proper motion consistent with ejection from R136.

Characteristics

VFTS 16 is classified as an O2 III* star. The designation indicates emission features in its spectrum, characteristic of hot, massive stars with strong stellar winds.
VFTS 16 was likely ejected via the dynamical ejection scenario involving interactions with other massive stars or binaries in R136.

Significance

VFTS 16 is a critical case study for understanding the formation, evolution, and ejection mechanisms of very massive stars. Its high mass and runaway status provide constraints on stellar dynamics in dense clusters and the upper mass limit for stars. The star’s properties, including its weak nitrogen enrichment and lack of significant helium enrichment, suggest a relatively unevolved state despite its dynamical history.