Genetic-algorithm-based light-curve optimization applied to observations of the W Ursae Majoris star BH Cassiopeiae

I have developed a procedure utilizing a genetic-algorithm (GA) based optim ization scheme to fit the observed light curves of an eclipsing binary star with a model produced by the Wilson-Devinney (W-D) code. The principal adv antages of this approach are the global search capability and the objectivi ty of the final result. Although this method can be more efficient than som e other comparably global search techniques, the computational requirements of the code are still considerable. I have applied this fitting procedure to my observations of the W UMa type eclipsing binary BH Cassiopeiae. An an alysis of V-band CCD data obtained in 1994-1995 from Steward Observatory an d U- and B-band photoelectric data obtained in 1996 from McDonald Observato ry provided three complete light curves to constrain the fit. In addition, radial velocity curves obtained in 1997 from McDonald Observatory provided a direct measurement of the system mass ratio to restrict the search. The r esults of the GA-based fit are in excellent agreement with the final orbita l solution obtained with the standard differential corrections procedure in the W-D code.