A pulsar is a highly magnetized, rotating neutron star that emits beams of electromagnetic radiation out of its magnetic poles. As the star spins, these beams sweep across space, and if they align with Earth, they can be detected as regular pulses of radiation, hence the name 'pulsar'. These celestial objects are remnants of supernova explosions and are known for their incredible density and rapid rotation.
Pulsars are fascinating to astronomers because they can be used as cosmic clocks due to their precise rotation periods. They provide valuable insights into the behavior of matter under extreme conditions and contribute to our understanding of fundamental physics, including the study of gravitational waves and the nature of spacetime.