What distinct cosmic event is defined by the merger of two neutron stars, emitting gravitational waves?

Kilonova

A kilonova is a specific, energetic astronomical event distinctly different from a standard supernova. It occurs when two ultra-dense neutron stars, often the remnants of previous stellar collapses, spiral inward and physically merge due to their mutual gravitational pull. This catastrophic merger releases an enormous amount of energy, accompanied by a detectable burst of gravitational waves, which confirms the collision of these massive, compact objects. Furthermore, the merger actively creates and disperses some of the heaviest elements in the universe, such as gold, because the environment provides the necessary extreme density and neutron flux. The resulting light emitted, which glows red because the freshly created heavy elements absorb blue light, confirms the kilonova classification.