AI Insight
Astronomers have identified a binary system containing two neutron stars with the lowest combined mass observed to date. Neutron stars are extremely dense remnants formed when massive stars explode as supernovae at the end of their life cycles. Some neutron stars, called pulsars, rotate rapidly and emit radio wave beams that can be detected from Earth as they sweep across our line of sight.
Why it matters
This discovery helps astronomers better understand the formation and evolution of neutron star systems, which are important laboratories for testing theories of gravity and extreme physics. Low-mass double neutron star systems may also inform models of stellar evolution and the mechanisms behind supernova explosions.
Understand the Science
Neutron stars, the extremely dense remains of massive stars that exploded at the end of their lives, are widely studied astrophysical objects. Some of these stars, known as pulsars, spin and send out beams of radio waves, making them appear to pulse as the beams sweep past Earth.
Source: Astronomers discover the lowest-mass double neutron star system to date