Future INTEGRAL observations of classical novae

The detection of gamma-rays from classical novae would provide a unique proof of the thermonuclear runaway model for these explosions. There has been no positive detection of any nova in gamma-rays up to date. The gamma rays emitted as a consequence of nova outbursts directly reflect the amount of radioactive nuclei synthesized during the explosion; in addition, they provide a direct insight of the dynamic properties of the expanding nova envelope, specially those emitted promptly, when the envelope is not yet completely transparent. The ESA INTEGRAL satellite (launch date October 17th, 2002), will offer an excellent opportunity to observe nearby classical novae, with unprecedented sensitivity and energetic resolution. Both our approved observation in the Guest Observer's Programme, and the foreseen Core Programme observations, will hopefully be able to detect the gamma ray emission from classical nova explosions and to extract the maximum possible scientific results from them