The Pulsar Timing Array

The Pulsar Timing Array (PTA) is a scientific method that uses highly regular neutron stars called pulsars as cosmic clocks. By precisely monitoring the signals from multiple pulsars spread across the galaxy, scientists look for tiny irregularities caused by passing gravitational waves—ripples in spacetime often generated by massive cosmic events like merging black holes. Detecting these minute fluctuations helps researchers study gravitational waves at very low frequencies, complementing other observatories. This approach allows us to explore the universe’s most energetic phenomena and gain insights into cosmic evolution from a unique, gravitational-wave perspective.