NASA | Fermi Catches a 'Transformer' Pulsar

The video explores an extraordinary binary system featuring a rapidly spinning neutron star, or pulsar, paired with a smaller star. This system is unique because its radio signals sometimes vanish, replaced by X-ray and gamma-ray emissions. Researchers believe this occurs due to interactions between the stars, where gas from the smaller star forms a disk around the pulsar, leading to high-energy emissions. The system offers a rare glimpse into a phase where mass transfer can rejuvenate a pulsar. Astronomers are closely monitoring this system to document its next transformation.

What is unique about the binary system discussed in the video?

• The companion star is larger than the sun.

• It is the largest binary system known.

• The pulsar's radio signal sometimes disappears.

• It consists of two neutron stars.

What happens when the companion star's gas forms a disk around the pulsar?

• The companion star becomes a black hole.

• The system emits only radio waves.

• The pulsar stops spinning.

• Dual particle jets are created.

How does the pulsar's wind affect the companion star's gas stream?

• It causes the gas to evaporate.

• It transforms the gas into a solid.

• It holds back the gas stream.

• It accelerates the gas stream.

What is the potential outcome of the pulsar's wind eroding the companion star?

• The pulsar will stop emitting radio waves.

• The companion star will become a supernova.

• The binary system will merge into one star.

• Only the pulsar will remain.

Why are astronomers closely observing this binary system?

• To discover new types of stars.

• To find new planets around the pulsar.

• To document the transformation process.

• To measure the pulsar's magnetic field.