Discovery of Slowest Spinning Neutron Star Challenges Astrophysical Models

Australian researchers identify a neutron star with an unprecedented rotation period, raising new questions about stellar behavior.

The neutron star, detected by the ASKAP radio telescope, takes nearly an hour to complete one rotation.
This finding contradicts existing theories that describe radio-emitting neutron stars as fast rotators.
The object exhibits three distinct emission states, complicating its classification.
Scientists are considering both neutron stars and white dwarfs as potential explanations.
Further research is needed to understand the implications for our knowledge of stellar evolution and magnetic fields.