Researchers Dr. Jan van Paradijs and his team are using the Advanced X-ray Astrophysics Facility (AXAF) to study two Anomalous X-ray Pulsars (AXPs) - magnetar candidates - that differ from the bulk of X-ray pulsars due to their red X-ray colors and short pulse periods, indicating strong magnetic fields aging the pulsars faster.
Astronomers detected a series of at least 26 starquakes, leading to the discovery of SGR 1627-41, the fourth conclusively identified SGR. The new SGR is believed to be caused by massive starquakes and has been linked to a supernova remnant.
New observations reveal DEM L 316 as two overlapping supernova remnants with colliding shells, studied to understand energy and element distribution. The collision may influence the births of new stars by distributing material from dead stars.