  We propose to observe with Kepler an age sequence of nearby uncrowded open
clusters. The current Kepler field contains very few (only 4) somewhat distant
and/or old clusters. Nearby open clusters are already well characterized from
ground- and many space-based observations. Our proposal focuses on mid and
upper main-sequence variables (main sequence and pre-main sequence gamma Dor or
delta Scuti stars, SPB/beta Cep stars, Cepheids, or yellow supergiants), having
periods of hours to days accessible by longer cadence observations.
Asteroseismology for these objects to date is limited by the number of modes
observable from the ground, difficulty in obtaining spectroscopic or
photometric mode ID for the fainter targets that have been observed by Kepler,
uncertainties in interior and initial abundances, especially for stars with
abundance anomalies, uncertainties in distance/luminosity, and lack of
knowledge of prior evolution history. The additional constraints of common age,
distance and initial abundances in clusters will place these variables in their
evolutionary context, and help unlock some of the science and reduce
uncertainties for understanding star formation and stellar evolution.
