Astronomers witness birth of a magnetar from a supernova for the first time

A strange "chirping" signal detected from a distant supernova has revealed the first-ever observed birth of a magnetar — a neutron star with an extreme magnetic field capable of powering the universe's brightest stellar explosions. The discovery confirms the long-held theory that magnetars can form from supernovae. It also marks the first time Einstein's general theory of relativity has been used to explain the mechanics of a supernova explosion.

More on this topic

🔬 Science Astronomers detect radio signals from rare 'Blue Eye Pulsar' after decades of silence Space.com · 24d ago 🔬 Science Mystery of the Sun's Missing Silver May Be Solved — It Was Hiding Inside All Along Space.com · 6d ago 🔬 Science Scientists May Have Found the First Binary Star System Where Both Stars Went Supernova Space.com · 9d ago

More on this topic

🔬 Science Astronomers detect radio signals from rare 'Blue Eye Pulsar' after decades of silence Space.com · 24d ago 🔬 Science Mystery of the Sun's Missing Silver May Be Solved — It Was Hiding Inside All Along Space.com · 6d ago 🔬 Science Scientists May Have Found the First Binary Star System Where Both Stars Went Supernova Space.com · 9d ago