Auckland: A rare celestial event is set to unfold as the comet C/2025 R3 PanSTARRS, formed at the outer edges of the solar system, becomes visible in southern skies over the next two weeks. Skywatchers have a limited opportunity to observe it before it disappears for an estimated 170,000 years.
According to astronomer Josh Aoraki from Te Whatu Stardome in Auckland, the comet had previously been visible in the northern hemisphere but has now looped around the Sun and shifted into southern viewing regions.
While the comet is relatively bright, it is not visible to the naked eye. Observers will need binoculars, a telescope, or a camera to spot it. Aoraki noted that although it cannot be easily seen without equipment, it is still a good target for astrophotography.
View this post on Instagram
The comet’s brightness is expected to gradually fade over the coming fortnight. Observers in New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, and across the Pacific region are advised to view it as soon as possible.
For optimal viewing, stargazers should look toward the western horizon shortly after sunset, when the comet appears low in the sky. The best time to observe it is within the first hour after the Sun sets.
Those who manage to see it can expect a distinctive appearance, featuring a blue-green glowing coma, caused by gas surrounding the comet’s nucleus, and a faint, hazy tail trailing behind it.
The comet originated in the Oort Cloud, a distant shell of icy objects at the far reaches of the solar system. Discovered in 2025, it is classified as a long-period comet, taking approximately 170,000 years to complete one orbit around the Sun.
Astronomers note that predicting the exact trajectory of such comets is challenging, as they lose mass while passing near the Sun, which can alter their path. As a result, while it may return after its long orbit, it could also be ejected from the solar system entirely.
MOST READ | Spirit Airlines begins shutdown after rescue deal collapse
