Comet C/2025 R3 may be visible in 2026

Comet C/2025 R3 (PanSTARRS) was discovered on Sept. 8, 2025 and is reported to pass near Earth around April 27, 2026.

Comet C/2025 R3 (PanSTARRS) is a recently discovered comet that could be visible in 2026. It was found on September 8, 2025 by the Pan-STARRS survey and is likely from the Oort cloud. Astronomers describe it as a long-period comet with an orbital period of more than 1,000 years. Its future brightness and behaviour are uncertain, and several outcomes could affect whether it becomes a visible spectacle. Key details: - Discovered on September 8, 2025 by the Panoramic Survey Telescope and Rapid Response System (Pan-STARRS). - Reported as currently about 348 million kilometres from Earth at the time of the report. - Classified as a long-period comet, likely originating in the Oort cloud. - Reported perihelion on April 20, 2026 at about 76.3 million kilometres from the Sun. - Reported close approach to Earth around April 27, 2026 at roughly 70.8 million kilometres; reports note it could be hidden by the Sun and cite April 17 as a possible date for visibility. Summary: Reports indicate the comet could be visible to some observers if it remains intact and bright, but its behaviour is unpredictable. Reports list April 17 (possible visibility), April 20 (perihelion), and April 27 (closest approach to Earth) as the next key dates.