A pulsar is a star that emits
radiation from its two magnetic poles. These
poles accelerate particles through the magnetic
field and these particles moving emit radiation
that we can see with telescopes. This radiation
acts like a light house beacon so when its
streaks into an observatories view, there is a
chance to track down the pulsar. There is a
chance because these pulses have very quickly,
around milliseconds to seconds in length.
Although the pulsar is also emitting these
accelerated particles, scientists can only
observe them when it is pointed in there
direction. Much like a light house can not be
seen unless the light is shining in your
direction.
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https://imagine.gsfc.nasa.gov/science/objects/neutron_stars1.html |