The transition phase in Nova Muscae 1998, the dust formation in classical novae and a possible link to intermediate polar systems

Abstract

We present results of continuous CCD photometry of Nova Muscae 1998 during 17 nights obtained mainly during the transition phase in the light curve of the young nova. We discovered a periodical oscillation with the period 0.16930 day. This result is important for understanding this peculiar stage in the light curve of certain classical novae. We also note a possible connection between the transition / dust phase in nova light curves and intermediate polar systems.