What is a pulsar and how do you observe it?

A pulsar is a highly magnetized, rotating neutron star or white dwarf that emits beams of electromagnetic radiation out of its magnetic poles. These beams of radiation are observed as pulses of radiation at regular intervals, hence the name pulsar. Pulsars are often formed after a massive star undergoes a supernova explosion, leaving behind a small, compact core that is incredibly dense.

To observe a pulsar, astronomers use radio telescopes that can detect the pulses of radiation emitted by the pulsar. The telescope collects the radiation and converts it into a digital signal, which can then be analyzed by a computer to determine the characteristics of the pulsar. By analyzing the pulses of radiation, astronomers can learn about the properties of the pulsar, such as its rotation rate, magnetic field strength, and other important characteristics.