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Slow-Spinning Neutron Star Challenges Existing Theories

Astronomers have discovered a neutron star, ASKAP J1839-075, that challenges current understanding of neutron star behavior due to its extremely slow rotation rate. Located 13,000 light-years away, it takes 6.5 hours for a complete spin, significantly slower than typical neutron stars which rotate in milliseconds or seconds. This peculiar behavior could alter theories about neutron star evolution, as it was previously believed that such slow rotations would cease radio wave emissions. This star's discovery was aided by archival data from the ASKAP radio telescope in Australia, leading to new insights into these 'long-period radio transients'. The findings suggest potential involvement of magnetars or white dwarfs, though the reasons for these anomalous pulses remain uncertain, prompting further research into their origins and mechanisms.

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