Astronomers from the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) have achieved a groundbreaking discovery, detecting far ultraviolet (FUV) emissions from novae in the Andromeda galaxy for the first time. Novae are transient astronomical phenomena marked by a sudden outburst of light from a star-like object, which gradually fades over time.
Using data from the Ultraviolet Imaging Telescope (UVIT) aboard India’s AstroSat, the IIA team identified these emissions while analyzing archival observations of Andromeda. AstroSat, India’s first dedicated space observatory, features UVIT as a key payload developed by IIA.
During their study, the team uncovered ultraviolet emissions from 42 novae in Andromeda, including four captured during their explosive outburst phase. This discovery is significant as it allows researchers to study these interacting binary star systems in various stages of their evolution—some accumulating matter from a companion star, while others eject it into space.
Lead researcher Judhajeet Basu explained, “UVIT’s fine spatial resolution and unique ability to observe in both far UV and near UV enabled us to detect accretion disks in some of these systems, located 2.5 million light-years away.” The brightness of these disks indicates the rate at which matter from a companion star is being consumed, revealing insights into the stability of the accretion process.
The findings, achieved by a team including Judhajeet Basu, Krishnendu S., Sudhanshu Barway, Shatakshi Chamoli, and G.C. Anupama, mark a significant advancement in understanding binary star systems in our closest galactic neighbor. This research highlights the potential of UVIT and AstroSat in unraveling cosmic mysteries far beyond our solar system.