Novawatch News

NovaWatch delivers comprehensive, real-time coverage and expert analysis of celestial events, particularly focusing on stellar novae, supernovae, and other...

What is a nova?

A nova is a sudden, temporary brightening of a star, caused by a thermonuclear explosion on the surface of a white dwarf star within a binary system, ejecting material into space.

How does NovaWatch track celestial events?

NovaWatch aggregates data from professional observatories, space telescopes, and a network of amateur astronomers globally. We utilize advanced algorithms to monitor, verify, and report on new or evolving transient astronomical phenomena promptly.

What is the difference between a nova and a supernova?

A nova is a smaller, recurring explosion on the surface of a white dwarf star, leaving the star largely intact. A supernova is a far more powerful, catastrophic explosion that marks the complete destruction of a massive star or a white dwarf.

Can amateur astronomers contribute to NovaWatch findings?

Yes, amateur astronomers play a vital role in discovering and tracking transient events. NovaWatch actively encourages collaboration and provides resources for submitting observations and contributing to the global astronomical community.

See all updates on Novawatch