Types of Pulsar Stars

Pulsars, which are a type of neutron star, are one of the smallest types of stars in the known universe. There are two main types of pulsars, and one sub-type. Knowing the differences between the types of pulsars can help you identify a pulsar more easily when studying astronomy or cosmology.
  1. Millisecond Pulsars

    • Millisecond pulsars spin at an exceptionally fast rate. With a rotation rate of more than 40 revolutions per second and a pulse period of fewer than 25 milliseconds, millisecond pulsars typically indicate a younger pulsar. Their pulses are extremely even and very regular, making them easy to identify and use as standards for calculations.

    Ordinary Pulsars

    • This slower pulsar is the most common type seen, typically having a rotation of about once per second. Once the rotation rate of a millisecond pulsar slows down, it becomes more unpredictable and less easy to identify. The rotation eventually will slow down to the once-per-second rate of an ordinary pulsar.

    Binary Pulsars

    • This sub-type includes two pulsars orbiting around each other. Binary pulsars can sometimes orbit around larger stars, and can be difficult to identify.

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