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Artwork of a white dwarf nova
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Artwork of a white dwarf nova
Nova. Artwork of a white dwarf star becoming a nova, as seen from a nearby Saturn-like planet. A nova is a star which suddenly increases in bright- ness. White dwarfs are the dim remnants of small to medium- sized stars which have run out of hydro- gen fuel to power their nuclear reactions. If the white dwarf is in a binary system, it may capture hydrogen-rich material from its companion star. This may begin a rapid nuclear reaction on the stars surface. The star typically becomes several thousand times brighter in a matter of hours or days, fading again over months or years. A nova also generally ejects a little of its mass to form a large, gaseous halo
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6442555
© JOE TUCCIARONE/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Cosmology Dwarf Nova Star Stellar White Dwarf
EDITORS COMMENTS
This artwork showcases the mesmerizing phenomenon of a white dwarf nova. From the perspective of a Saturn-like planet nearby, we witness the awe-inspiring transformation of a white dwarf star into a nova. White dwarfs are remnants of once vibrant stars that have depleted their hydrogen fuel, rendering them dim and lifeless. However, in certain cases where these white dwarfs exist within binary systems, they can capture hydrogen-rich material from their companion stars. As this captured material accumulates on the surface of the white dwarf, it triggers an intense nuclear reaction that ignites a rapid increase in brightness. Within hours or days, this previously faint star becomes several thousand times brighter, illuminating its surroundings with unparalleled radiance. Over time, this brilliance gradually fades away over months or even years. The explosive nature of novas is not only visually stunning but also results in the ejection of some mass from the star itself. This ejected matter forms an expansive and ethereal gaseous halo surrounding the nova. Through this remarkable artwork by Science Photo Library, we are transported to distant realms where cosmic events unfold on unimaginable scales. It serves as a testament to our insatiable curiosity about our universe and reminds us of both its beauty and complexity - elements that continue to captivate scientists and stargazers alike.
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