Neutron Star Jets Measured Moving at One-Third the Speed of Light

Groundbreaking research reveals the speeds of jets from 'cosmic cannibals,' offering insights into the mechanisms behind their powerful ejections.

For the first time, astronomers have measured the speeds of jets from neutron stars, moving at up to 40% the speed of light.
The discovery was made using a combination of data from the Australia Telescope Compact Array and the European Space Agency's Integral observatory.
These jets are produced by neutron stars accreting material from companion stars, leading to thermonuclear explosions that propel matter into space.
The findings could help resolve long-standing questions about what accelerates these jets, with implications for understanding both neutron stars and supermassive black holes.
This research paves the way for future studies to further investigate the properties of jets and their impact on the cosmos.