A nova visible to the naked eye in the sky: how to observe it?

Since June 12, a new light source has appeared in the night sky. Initially too faint to be seen without instruments, its brightness has rapidly increased. Observations have identified it as a well-known classical nova, a type of stellar explosion.


The nova, officially named V462 Lupi, has reached an apparent magnitude of +5.7, making it visible without optical aid under clear skies. Located in the southern hemisphere, it can also be observed from the northern hemisphere, near the southern horizon after sunset.

Classical novas occur in binary systems where a white dwarf draws matter from its companion. The accumulation of matter on the white dwarf's surface eventually triggers a thermonuclear explosion, projecting intense light into space. Unlike supernovas, these explosions don't destroy the host star.

Naked-eye visible novas are rare. V462 Lupi therefore offers a unique opportunity for amateur astronomers to observe such an event. Although its peak brightness may have already been reached, it may continue to shine intensely in the coming days.

Studying these phenomena helps scientists better understand stellar explosion mechanisms and the evolution of binary systems.

What is a classical nova?

A classical nova is a stellar explosion that occurs in a binary system composed of a white dwarf and a companion star. The extremely dense white dwarf attracts matter from its neighboring star due to its strong gravity.

When the accumulated matter on the white dwarf's surface reaches a critical mass, the pressure and temperature become sufficient to trigger an explosive nuclear fusion reaction. This explosion ejects some of the accumulated matter into space, producing a sudden increase in brightness.

Unlike supernovas, which mark the end of a star's life, a nova doesn't destroy the white dwarf. After the explosion, the process can restart if the companion star continues to supply matter.

Classical novas are valuable tools for astronomers, allowing the study of mass transfer processes and nuclear reactions under extreme conditions.