A type of nova that erupts repeatedly with intervals of 10-80 years, occurring in binary systems where a massive white dwarf rapidly accretes material from a companion star. These systems are considered potential progenitors of Type Ia supernovae when the white dwarf approaches the Chandrasekhar limit.
From Latin 'recurrens' (running back, returning) and 'nova' (new star), coined in the early 20th century when astronomers realized some novae appeared in the same locations multiple times. The term emphasizes the cyclical nature distinguishing these from classical novae that typically don't repeat within human timescales.
Recurrent novae are like stellar time bombs on a countdown! Each eruption brings the white dwarf closer to the critical mass limit, and when it finally reaches 1.4 solar masses, the entire star will detonate as a Type Ia supernova - one of the most powerful explosions in the universe.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.