The Explosive or Cataclysmic Variable, in which the star undergoes some sort of explosion, has fascinated mankind for centuries. An otherwise apparently normal looking star will suddenly brighten, reach a maximum, and then fade away in a more gradual manner. In general, the cataclysmic variable stars are divided into three groups on the basis of the intensity of the explosion or outburst: Dwarf Novae, Novae and Recurrent Novae, and the Supernovae.

Copyright (c) 1997-99 Michael Erlewine