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Illustration of a pulsar as seen from its planet
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Illustration of a pulsar as seen from its planet
Illustration of the pulsar PSR1257+12 (centre) as seen from its innermost planet (bottom). Two planets with masses of 2.8 and 3.4 terrestrial masses were found orbiting at a distance of 0.47 AU and 0.36 AU from the pulsar (1 AU = 1 Astronomical Unit - about 150 million km). The interaction between the planets and the pulsar was detected as a periodic change in the rotational period of the pulsar. Pulsars are neutron stars and their main feature is the emission of a flash of energy concentrated into a narrow beam. They are usually found in binary stellar systems and their strong gravitational force extracts gas (pink clouds) from the companion star. Reference: Nature Vol. 355 9-1-1992, pag. 145
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Media ID 6442809
© JULIAN BAUM/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Alien Planetary System Cosmology Planetary System Pulsar Solar System
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases an exquisite illustration of a pulsar, as observed from its very own planet. At the center of this mesmerizing artwork lies the pulsar PSR1257+12, emanating a powerful energy beam that illuminates the cosmic surroundings. Positioned beneath it is its innermost planet, offering us a glimpse into the enigmatic depths of this alien planetary system. The two neighboring planets depicted in this image possess masses equivalent to 2.8 and 3.4 times that of Earth respectively, orbiting at distances measuring 0.47 AU and 0.36 AU from their radiant host star - the pulsar itself. The intricate dance between these celestial bodies has been detected through periodic changes in the rotational period of the pulsar, revealing their gravitational interaction. Pulsars are extraordinary neutron stars renowned for emitting concentrated bursts of energy within narrow beams - a defining characteristic beautifully captured in this artwork's portrayal. Typically found within binary stellar systems like this one, they exert immense gravitational forces on their companion stars, extracting ethereal gas clouds which manifest as delicate pink wisps surrounding them. This awe-inspiring illustration not only offers an artistic representation but also serves as a testament to humanity's insatiable curiosity about our vast universe and its countless wonders beyond our solar system's boundaries. As we explore distant realms such as PSR1257+12 and unravel their mysteries, we inch closer to understanding our place amidst the grand tapestry of cosmology itself.
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