Classical Novae

This second edition has been updated and revised and contains contributions covering important developments in this field, and reflecting on interesting insights into classical novae. The book examines thermonuclear processes, the evolution of nova systems, nova atmospheres and winds, the evolution of dust and molecules in novae, nova remnants and observations of novae in other galaxies. It includes observations across the electromagnetic spectrum, from radio to gamma rays, and discusses some of the most important outstanding problems in classical nova research.

Preface; 1. Novae - a historical perspective Hilmar W. Duerbeck; 2. Properties of novae: an overview Brian Warner; 3. The evolution of nova-producing binary stars Icko Iben, Jr and Masayuki Y. Fujimoto; 4. Thermonuclear processes S. Starrfield, C. Iliadis and W. R. Hix; 5. Nova atmospheres and winds P. H. Hauschildt; 6. Observational mysteries and theoretical challenges Jordi Jose and Steven N. Shore; 7. Radio emission from novae E. R. Seaquist and M. F. Bode; 8. Infrared studies of classical novae Robert D. Gehrz; 9. Optical and ultraviolet evolution Steven N. Shore; 10. X-ray emission from classical novae in outburst Joachim Krautter; 11. Gamma-rays from classical novae Margarita Hernanz; 12. Resolved nova remnants T. J. O'Brien and M. F. Bode; 13. Dust and molecules in nova environments A. Evans and J. M. C. Rawlings; 14. Extragalactic novae Allen Shafter; Index.

This 2008 second edition has been fully updated and revised and contains new contributions covering important developments in this field. The only book devoted solely to the study of classical novae, this is an important reference for researchers actively engaged in the subject and graduate students seeking an introduction.