Magnetars are a type of neutron star, which is an extremely dense and compact remnant of a supernova explosion. Neutron stars are typically around 1.4 times the mass of the sun, but they are only about 10-15 kilometers in diameter, making them incredibly small for an average size of a star.

Magnetars are a particular type of neutron star that have an extremely strong magnetic field, up to 1,000 times stronger than a typical neutron star. This makes them some of the most magnetic objects in the universe. The intense magnetic fields are thought to be generated by the rapid rotation of the star’s core, which creates a dynamo effect.

One of the most striking characteristics of magnetars is their tendency to emit powerful bursts of X-rays and gamma rays, known as “giant flares.” These bursts are thought to be caused by the sudden release of energy from the star’s magnetic field, which can cause the emission of high-energy radiation. Giant flares from magnetars can release as much energy in a few minutes as the sun emits in years.

Magnetars are also known for their steady emission of X-rays, which is thought to be caused by the heating of the star’s surface by the strong magnetic field. This emission is called the magnetar “stare.” The X-rays from magnetars are so intense that they can cause the atmosphere of a planet to evaporate if it is too close.

Magnetars are relatively rare, with only about 30 known in the Milky Way galaxy. They are still the subject of intense study by astronomers, as they provide a unique laboratory for studying extreme physics and the behavior of matter under the most extreme conditions in the universe.