Observation by Mike Harlow: Nova Tau 2026: Spectrum

Uploaded by

Mike Harlow

Observer

Mike Harlow

Observed

2026 Oct 08 - 03:00

Uploaded

2026 Oct 08 - 05:41

Objects

Nova Tau 2026
Spectrum

Equipment

12inch F/3.6 astrograph
ASI6200MM CMOS camera, no filter
20cm diameter, 9 degree objective prism

Exposure

90 x 10 seconds

Location

Ipswich, UK

Target name

Nova Tau 2026

Title

Nova Tau 2026: Spectrum

About this image

Latest spectrum of the nova showing narrow emission lines on a fading continuum background. Can be compared to spectra in the ARAS database and BAA database both from 6th October but over a narrower spectral range.

The nova has faded by two magnitudes (V-mag 10.2 to 12.2) since my previous spectrum on 18th September. The continuum has faded and the feature between H beta and H gamma has returned. And the OI emission line in the IR at 845nm has increased in brightness.

Field of view 35 x 18 arc minutes with north right.

Files associated with this observation

Nova_Tau_2026_spectrum_20261008.jpg (182.8 kB)

Like this image

Jeremy Shears, Dominic Ford

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