Monte Carlo Simulations of Globular Cluster Dynamics

We have developed a new parallel supercomputer code based on Henon’s Monte Carlo method for simulating the dynamical evolution of globular clusters. This new code allows us to calculate the evolution of a cluster containing a realistic number of stars (N ~ 10^5 - 10^6) in about a day of computing time. The discrete, star-by-star representation of the cluster in the simulation allows us to treat naturally a number of important processes, including single and binary star evolution, all dynamical interactions of single stars and primordial binaries, and tidal interactions with the Galaxy.