Italian National Institute of Astrophysics in Palermo has conducted a groundbreaking study that unveils the astonishing speed at which neutron stars drive powerful jets into space. Published in the prestigious journal Nature, the research reveals that these jets can reach speeds of about one-third the speed of light, shedding light on the mechanisms behind these cosmic phenomena.
Jets, which are energetic cosmic beams, are commonly observed throughout the universe. They are launched when material falls towards dense central objects like neutron stars or black holes, carrying away gravitational energy released by infalling gas and recycling it on larger scales. The most powerful jets, originating from massive black holes at the centers of galaxies, play a crucial role in shaping galaxy evolution.
The study of jets launched by neutron stars presents a unique opportunity to gain insights into these enigmatic celestial objects. Neutron stars, dense stellar remnants the size of a city but with the mass of a star, possess solid surfaces and magnetic fields that influence how their jets are launched. Understanding the speeds at which these jets travel can provide valuable information for testing theoretical predictions regarding the mass and spin of neutron stars.
In a new experiment led by researchers from the Italian National Institute of Astrophysics in Palermo, a “cosmic speed camera” was used to measure the speeds of neutron star jets. Unlike jets from black holes, which are well-studied and bright, jets from neutron stars are typically fainter and less understood. By identifying a short-lived signal at X-ray wavelengths as a “starting gun,” researchers were able to overcome the steady flow of neutron star jets and accurately measure their speeds.
The study also investigated the impact of thermonuclear explosions on neutron star jets, aiming to capture any disruptions in the jets caused by these explosive events. By observing the jets for three days at radio wavelengths using CSIRO’s Australia Telescope Compact Array and simultaneously monitoring X-rays from the system with the European Space Agency’s Integral telescope, researchers were able to gather crucial data on the behavior of neutron star jets.
This research represents a significant step towards unraveling the mysteries surrounding neutron star jets and provides valuable insights into the launching mechanisms of these cosmic phenomena. By combining observational data with theoretical models, scientists are advancing our understanding of the complex dynamics at play in the cosmic realm, opening new avenues for future exploration and discoveries.