When some massive stars die, their remains collapse into neutron stars.
Exactly how the jets are powered from both objects is asubject of ongoing study.
Once enough of it builds up nuclear fusion reactions start to happen on the surface.
Matter from a companion star boosting a neutron star’s jets.Gif: ESA
Thermonuclear explosions on distant stars are the cosmic equivalent of stepping on the accelerator.
The explosions kickstart jet emissions which spew out into space.
The jets are normally a steady flow, making it difficult to time the speed of the material.
The Vela pulsar issuing a jet.Gif:NASA/CXC/Univ of Toronto/M.Durant et al; Optical: DSS/Davide De Martin
But when the stars accreted enough mass for explosions to occur on their surfaces, they emitted bright X-rays.
In turn, the jets flared up, making it possible to measure their speeds.
So close, jet, but no cigar.
The future is brightquite literallyfor understanding some of the universes most extreme physics.
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Are We Inside a Black Hole?
