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AsteriaStar
Astrophysical object

Magnetar

Cosmology & UniverseEstablished Science

Definition

A neutron star with an extraordinarily powerful magnetic field, the strongest known in the Universe.

Scientific overview

Magnetars have magnetic fields a thousand times stronger than ordinary neutron stars, powering intense bursts of X-rays and gamma rays. Some are linked to fast radio bursts.

Knowledge connections

Sources & references

The primary and reference sources this topic draws on.

  • NASANational Aeronautics and Space Administration

    Mission data, planetary science, space telescopes, and public-domain imagery.

    Most NASA-produced imagery is in the public domain; individual items are checked for usage terms before publication.