Universe ID: 12605

What is a Neutron Star?

Released on May 18, 2017

Here's just some of what we already know about neutron stars. An upcoming NASA mission will further investigate these unusual objects from the International Space Station. The Neutron star Interior Composition Explorer mission, or NICER, will study the extraordinary environments — strong gravity, ultra-dense matter, and the most powerful magnetic fields in the universe — embodied by neutron stars. NICER is a two-in-one mission. The embedded Station Explorer for X-ray Timing and Navigation Technology, or SEXTANT, demonstration will use NICER data to validate, for the first time in space, pulsar-based navigation.

NICER is planned for launch aboard the SpaceX CRS-11, currently scheduled for June 1, 2017. Learn more about the mission at nasa.gov/nicer.

For More Information

https://www.nasa.gov/nicer

Credits

Clare Skelly (NASA/GSFC): Lead Producer
Walt Feimer (KBR Wyle Services, LLC): Lead Animator
Lisa Poje (USRA): Animator
Joy Ng (USRA): Narrator

Please give credit for this item to:
NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center