The Ongoing Outburst of the Eclipsing Symbiotic Nova as 296=FG Ser.II. UBV-JHKL Photometry Over Days 1200-2300

We present a large set of new UBV and JHKL measurements on the eclipsing symbiotic nova AS 296 = FG Ser covering the period 1992-1994. The new data extend our older 1988-1991 observations and provide a complete multiband monitoring of the outburst evolution since its onset in early June 1988. The general trend of the outburst evolution is confirmed, with a series of multiple maxima superimposed onto a slow decrease in the mean brightness. A total eclipse of the erupting White Dwarf (WD)(the third one since the onset of the outburst), which was expected to take place in May-June 1993, has been observed as predicted. New infrared photometry confirms that the M5 3 component has been unaffected by the outburst. The cool giant appears well inside its Roche lobe. No dust or circumstellar nebular regions formed as a consequence of the outburst. The presence of unevenly spaced multiple maxima of large amplitude makes impossible to predict future behavior and total duration of the outburst. Photometric variations outside eclipse are not correlated with the orbital phase.