The age of globular clusters places a limit on what significant aspect of cosmology?

The age of globular clusters is a critical factor in determining the age of the Universe because these clusters are among the oldest known stellar formations. By studying their oldest stars, astronomers can establish a minimum age for the Universe. Globular clusters typically contain stars that formed early in cosmic history and have evolved over billions of years. Since these clusters have ages that can be estimated using techniques such as stellar evolution models and isochrone fitting, their existence serves as a benchmark for the Universe's age.

Given that the Universe itself cannot be younger than its oldest components, the age derived from globular clusters places constraints on how long the Universe has been expanding since the Big Bang. This relationship between globular clusters and the age of the Universe underscores their importance in cosmological studies, allowing scientists to refine their models of the Universe's timeline and development.