pulsar
UK: ˈpʌlsɑː | US: ˈpʌlˌsɑr
n. a highly magnetized, rotating neutron star that emits beams of electromagnetic radiation from its poles
n. (by extension) any celestial object emitting regular pulses of radiation
pulsar = puls<pulse> + ar<noun suffix>
- puls<pulse>: From Latin pulsus (a beating, thrust), derived from pellere (to drive, push).
- ar<noun suffix>: A suffix of Latin origin, often used in scientific terms to denote agents or objects (e.g., quasar, radar).
Etymology Origin:
Coined in 1968 by astronomers Antony Hewish and Jocelyn Bell, pulsar blends pulse (referring to the star’s rhythmic emissions) with the suffix -ar (mirroring quasar). The term reflects the star’s behavior—like a cosmic lighthouse emitting regular "pulses" of radiation as it spins.
The discovery of the first pulsar provided evidence for the existence of neutron stars.
Pulsars are often called "cosmic clocks" due to their precise rotational periods.
Scientists use radio telescopes to detect faint pulsar signals.
The Crab Nebula houses a famous pulsar at its center.
Some pulsars emit X-rays or gamma rays in addition to radio waves.