Unveiling the Enigma of Neutron Stars: Insights from Quantum Simulations

In a recent scientific breakthrough, researchers have made substantial strides in unraveling the mysteries surrounding neutron stars. Through innovative experiments involving ultracold supersolids, this study represents a fusion of quantum mechanics and astrophysics, shedding light on the intricate internal dynamics of these celestial objects. Furthermore, it introduces new avenues for simulating stellar phenomena.

For decades, neutron stars have captivated the scientific community with their enigmatic behavior, characterized by periodic bursts of light and rapid rotation. These stellar behemoths, despite having a mass comparable to that of our Sun, are condensed into a remarkably compact sphere, spanning a mere 20 kilometers in diameter. Notably, they exhibit a peculiar phenomenon known as a “glitch,” wherein the star undergoes a sudden acceleration in its rotational speed. This intriguing occurrence suggests that neutron stars may possess superfluid characteristics, where rotation is defined by a multitude of minuscule vortices, each carrying a fraction of angular momentum. A glitch manifests when these vortices escape from the star’s inner crust to its solid outer shell, resulting in an augmentation of its rotational velocity.

The cornerstone of this research lies in the concept of a “supersolid” state, which embodies both crystalline and superfluid properties. This state is theorized to be a crucial component of neutron star glitches. Within the supersolid, quantized vortices remain nested until they collectively emancipate themselves and are subsequently assimilated by the star’s outer crust, thereby enhancing its rotation. Recent experiments involving ultracold dipolar atoms have successfully realized the supersolid phase, providing a unique opportunity to replicate the conditions akin to those within a neutron star.

This groundbreaking study, conducted by researchers from the University of Innsbruck, the Austrian Academy of Sciences, the Laboratori Nazionali del Gran Sasso, and the Gran Sasso Science Institute in Italy, demonstrates that glitches can indeed transpire in ultracold supersolids. These supersolids serve as versatile analogues for comprehending the inner workings of neutron stars. This innovative approach enables an in-depth exploration of the glitch mechanism, including its reliance on the quality of the supersolid. Elena Poli, the first author of the study, emphasizes, “Our research establishes a robust connection between quantum mechanics and astrophysics, offering fresh insights into the intrinsic nature of neutron stars.” Glitches, as revealed by this research, provide invaluable insights into the internal structure and dynamics of neutron stars, offering scientists a deeper understanding of the material properties under extreme conditions.

Francesca Ferlaino underscores the significance of this research by stating, “This study introduces a novel approach for gaining insights into the behavior of neutron stars and creates new possibilities for quantum simulations of celestial objects, all from the confines of low-energy Earth laboratories.”

This pioneering research has been published in the esteemed journal Physical Review Letters and received financial support from institutions such as the Austrian Science Fund FWF and the European Research Council ERC, among others.

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More about Neutron Star Glitches

• Physical Review Letters
• University of Innsbruck
• Austrian Academy of Sciences
• Laboratori Nazionali del Gran Sasso
• Gran Sasso Science Institute