* It is born from a star: Neutron stars are the incredibly dense remnants of massive stars that have exploded as supernovas. They are the end result of stellar evolution.
* It emits light: Although neutron stars don't shine like regular stars, they do emit radiation, including X-rays and radio waves. Some are even visible in optical light.
* It occupies space and has a defined location: Just like stars, neutron stars are celestial objects with a specific position in space.
* It is a distinct and identifiable object: While much smaller than a typical star, a neutron star is still a massive and distinct object that can be studied and observed.
So, while not producing light in the same way as a main sequence star, a neutron star shares enough similarities with a star to be considered a type of star. It's the collapsed, dense core of a star, and it still emits radiation and occupies space.