Novae

A nova is a stellar explosion that occurs in a binary star system, where one star is a white dwarf and the other is a companion star. The white dwarf accumulates gas from the companion, leading to a sudden fusion reaction on its surface. This explosion causes a dramatic increase in brightness, often making the nova shine brighter than all the stars in its vicinity for a short period. Unlike supernovae, which destroy the star, novae can recur over time, as the white dwarf remains intact and continues to gather material from its partner star.