Latest sat nav system uses Neutron stars to coast spacecrafts through the galaxy

Soon those unheard of spaces in the galaxy will not be a mystery anymore. Till now, manned satellites were bound to their limits as satellite navigation systems were unable to operate in outer space. Thus, satellites only orbited the earth and were incapable of hovering in interplanatary zones. However, this cosmic impediment will soon be a thing of the past. Scientists have embarked upon a breakthrough that will help satellites cross their barriers and cruise into deep space. To help satellites navigate through the stars, scientists will formulate a guidance system using pulsars as beacons.

Unraveling exactly how this feat will become a reality. Well, to plot a course through the intergalactic spaces, neutron stars will be used henceforth. Neutron stars are the remains from the explosion of a dying supernova star that has reached the end of its life. These neutrons rotate rapidly, have strong magnetic fields and emit stark beams. When these beams point towards the earth, they can be spotted as radiation pulses. The X ray light from these pulse radiations or pulsars will be used to chart the route of a satellite through the intergalactic space.

What adds to the good news is that these pulses are emitted at a gap of regular time periods. Thus, they can be harnessed easily to man a spaceship in far flung areas throughout the galaxy. The advent of these pulses will be gauged on the space bound craft and also on a reference location. Thus, it will be possible to monitor the path of the space craft where ever it goes in the solar system or galaxy. This pioneering technology is in development at the Germany based Max Planck institute.

Via: Dailymail