Astronomers have identified a magnetar named SGR 0501+4516 moving at over 110,000 mph (177,000 km/h). This type of neutron star, among the densest objects in the Universe, possesses a magnetic field 100 trillion times more intense than Earth's.
Discovered in 2008, this magnetar was then located 15,000 light-years from Earth. Recent observations with the Hubble Space Telescope and Gaia satellite revealed a movement speed far exceeding expectations. This discovery challenges theories about the formation of these celestial objects.
Magnetars rank among the most magnetic objects in the Universe.
Credit: ESA
The origin of SGR 0501+4516 remains enigmatic. Contrary to initial hypotheses, it may not have formed from the explosion of a massive star. Researchers now consider it might have formed through the direct collapse of a white dwarf, a rare and still poorly understood scenario.
This study opens new perspectives on the origin of fast radio bursts, extremely energetic cosmic signals. Magnetars could play a key role in these phenomena, though additional research is needed to confirm this hypothesis.
Magnetars like SGR 0501+4516 continue to fascinate scientists. Their study could shed light on some of the Universe's most violent events while testing the limits of our understanding of stellar physics.
What is a magnetar?
A magnetar is a neutron star with an extremely powerful magnetic field. These objects form during the collapse of massive stars at the end of their life cycle.
Their magnetic field is so intense it can distort atoms from a distance. This unique property makes them natural laboratories for studying physics under extreme conditions.
Magnetars occasionally emit bursts of X-rays and gamma rays. These eruptions are among the most energetic events observed in the Universe after gamma-ray bursts.