  We summarize photometric and spectroscopic observations of V463 Sct (Nova Sct
2000), which was originally thought to be a red variable. The spectrum taken on
2000 March 16.81 UT showed prominent emission lines with a FHWM of 990 km/s (H
alpha). The light curve shows a conspicuous premaximum halt lasting at least
for 24 d, and a late-phase flare-like maximum. The nova then started rapidly
fading at a rate corresponding to t2 = 15 +/- 3 d. Long premaximum halts have
been considered as a unique character of the "slowest" novae. The present
observation, however, suggests that the long premaximum halts are not a unique
character of the slowest novae, but a more general phenomenon spreading over a
wider range of nova speed classes than has been previously believed. A recent
interpretation of premaximum halts requires that the conditions of
thermonuclear runaway was only marginally satisfied. Since such conditions are
more difficult to meet in rapidly evolving novae, V463 Sct would provide an
unique opportunity in testing this interpretation. The early post-outburst
spectrum showed co-existence of Fe II lines and some forbidden lines, which
suggests that substantial amount of material may have been ejected before the
observed optical maximum. The impact of the modern global network (VSNET) on
confirmatory processes of transient objects is briefly discussed.

Astrophysics