Overview

• The conclave opened on May 7 with the 'Extra Omnes' ceremony sealing the Sistine Chapel, where 133 cardinals from 71 nations are voting in strict secrecy.
• The first black smoke, signaling no election, appeared at 9 PM—over an hour later than expected due to extended rituals and logistical challenges.
• Cardinal Raniero Cantalamessa's 45-minute meditation and the complexities of the voting process contributed to the delay in the smoke signal.
• Modern chemical additives ensure the clarity of black and white smoke, with black smoke produced using potassium perchlorate, anthracene, and sulfur.
• The second day of voting begins today, with up to four ballots and two scheduled smoke signals, one at midday and another in the evening.