Modeling Black Hole X-Ray Binaries in Globular Clusters

Numerical simulations of globular cluster dynamics will be used to study the formation and evolution of black hole (BH) X-ray binaries. Our simulation code is based on Hénon’s Monte Carlo method, providing much greater computational speed and convenience than direct N-body methods. Our code includes all dynamical and stellar evolution processes (for single stars and binaries) relevant to BH formation and evolution. The main goal of the project is to provide to the community a large database of cluster models focusing specifically on the properties of BHs and varying systematically all physical parameters and theoretical assumptions affecting the BHs most strongly.