An optical and infrared transient powered by radioactive decay in material ejected from a compact-object merger. Its evolving spectrum and light curve probe ejecta composition and rapid neutron-capture process production.
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A kilonova is an astronomical event that occurs when two neutron stars (or a neutron star and a black hole) merge. This extreme event produces a significant amount of energy and is characterized by a rapid increase in brightness, typically lasting from a few days to weeks. Kilonovae are expected to be a source of heavy elements such as gold and platinum, as the collision releases an intense amount of energy in the form of gravitational waves and electromagnetic radiation.