Pulsar, artwork. This stellar object is a rapidly- rotating neutron star
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
Pulsar, artwork. This stellar object is a rapidly- rotating neutron star
Pulsar, artwork. This stellar object is a rapidly- rotating neutron star. Neutron stars have powerful magnetic fields (shown by the purple lines, though they would not be visible) and rotate very fast (in less than a second). This causes acceleration of charged particles by the magnetic field and the release of radiation at the magnetic poles (beams, upper left and lower right). When the axis of rotation does not coincide with the magnetic axis, then the rotation sends the two beams sweeping across the sky. Correctly aligned beams are seen as pulses on Earth. Neutron stars are remnant stellar cores, having a mass greater than the Sun in a volume less than 20 kilometres wide
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6442361
© CHRIS BUTLER/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Astrophysical Astrophysics Beam Beams Compact Cosmology Dead Star Dense Evolution Fast Jets Magnetic Field Massive Neutron Star Pole Poles Pulsar Pulse Pulses Radio Rotating Rotation Signal Star Death Stellar Strong Supernova Remnant Pulsating Pulsing
EDITORS COMMENTS
This artwork titled "Pulsar" showcases the enigmatic beauty of a rapidly-rotating neutron star. Neutron stars, like this one, possess incredibly strong magnetic fields that are represented by the mesmerizing purple lines in the image. Although these magnetic fields would not be visible to the naked eye, they play a crucial role in shaping the behavior of this stellar object. As this neutron star rotates at an astonishing speed of less than a second per rotation, it generates an acceleration of charged particles due to its powerful magnetic field. This process leads to the emission of radiation from its magnetic poles, which can be observed as beams shooting out from the upper left and lower right corners of the artwork. The alignment between the axis of rotation and the magnetic axis determines how these beams sweep across space. When perfectly aligned with Earth's line-of-sight, we perceive them as regular pulses or flashes. These pulsing signals serve as our window into understanding these dense and compact remnants of massive stars. With a mass greater than that of our Sun confined within a volume less than 20 kilometers wide, neutron stars represent fascinating end points in stellar evolution. They offer valuable insights into astrophysics and cosmology while showcasing nature's ability to create such extreme celestial objects. This extraordinary print by Science Photo Library allows us to marvel at both scientific knowledge and artistic representation simultaneously.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.