Pulsar: Neutron Star with Magnetic Beams

Interactive WebGL pulsar: spinning neutron star, magnetic poles and sweeping radiation beams. Free in browser.

About pulsars

Pulsars are rapidly spinning neutron stars with intense magnetic fields. Narrow beams escape from the poles; as the star rotates, the beam sweeps past observers like a lighthouse.

In the simulation

See the neutron star surface, polar caps, magnetosphere and volumetric beams that can sweep toward the camera.

FAQ

How is a pulsar different from a normal star?

A pulsar is a compact supernova remnant, city-sized but more massive than the Sun.