NICER Mission Overview

The video discusses leveraging X-ray technology to study neutron stars, which are difficult to measure due to their size and distance. NICER's 56 telescopes aim to determine the structure of rotating neutron stars, or pulsars, by precisely measuring their size and density. This information helps constrain nuclear theories about particle interactions at the core of neutron stars. Additionally, the video highlights the Tunnel mission's goal to advance GPS-like navigation in space using pulsars. The Sextant project, part of the NICER mission, demonstrates this technology by using pulsars' precise timing signals for spacecraft navigation. Both NICER and Sextant contribute to current and future NASA missions, enhancing our understanding and exploration of the universe.

Explain the role of the NICER mission in understanding neutron stars.

What advancements does the sextant technology aim to achieve?