Pulsars are highly magnetized, rotating neutron stars that emit beams of electromagnetic radiation out of their magnetic poles. As these beams sweep across the Earth, they can be detected as pulses, hence the name 'pulsar'. They are formed from the remnants of massive stars that have undergone supernova explosions.
These celestial objects are incredibly precise in their rotation, making them useful as cosmic clocks. The study of pulsars has provided valuable insights into fundamental physics, including tests of general relativity and the behavior of matter under extreme conditions. Their unique properties continue to intrigue astronomers and physicists alike.