Nova

A nova is a cataclysmic nuclear explosion caused by the accretion of hydrogen onto the surface of a white dwarf star.

Observation

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  Artist's conception of a white dwarf star accreting hydrogen from a larger companion.
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  Nova: Before and after.
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  Nova cygni 1992.
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  Images of the star V838 Monocerotis.
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  Nova in M31 (Andromeda Galaxy)
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  V1500 Cyg (Nova Cygni 1975) Light Curve
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  Nova Eridani 2009 with a 14" telescope at 2009-11-30

Theory

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  Diagram of a Cataclysmic Variable

Novae