The Oort cloud comet – referred to as C/2025 R3 PanSTARRS – can be visible in New Zealand skies for the next week (file picture).
Photo: 123rf.com
A comet by no means seen earlier than is lighting up the Southern Hemisphere.
The Oort cloud comet – referred to as C/2025 R3 PanSTARRS – can be visible in New Zealand skies for the next week.
Te Whatu Stardome astronomer Josh Aoraki advised RNZ it may be seen about an hour after sundown.
“Anywhere in the country is going to get a good view,” he mentioned.
Good climate was crucial for viewing the comet, so checking the forecast in advance is a good suggestion, he mentioned.
It was additionally essential to discover a viewing spot with an unobstructed view of the western horizon, he added.
“So, for instance, on the West Coast goes to be a extremely good place.
“That’ll give you … [the] best viewing opportunity.”
It is a once-in-a-lifetime alternative as the comet has an orbital interval of about 170,000 years.
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