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Researchers have completed the first near-infrared study of a recurrent nova found outside our galaxy, revealing it to be one of the hottest nova explosions ever detected.
The nova, known as LMCN 1968-12a, is located in the Large Magellanic Cloud, which is a nearby companion galaxy to the Milky Way. According to Live Science, this nova represents the hottest eruption of its type on record.
This particular nova is significant not only for its extreme temperatures but also for its violent outbursts and distinctive chemical characteristics, which are markedly different from those found in galactic novae, as noted in a paper published in the journal Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society.
A nova occurs when a white dwarf—the remnant core of a star that has collapsed—pulls in material from a companion star while in a close orbit. This interaction leads to striking astronomical events.
The term “nova” comes from Latin, meaning “new.”
This phenomenon typically results in a brilliant flash that can be seen in the night sky, reminiscent of a new star’s appearance, and usually lasts a few weeks to months before it gradually dims. Importantly, the original stars remain intact after the eruption, unlike a supernova, which results in the complete destruction of the star.
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