A closer look at the comet, captured from Wellington.
Photo: Supplied: Brian Diettrich
A comet never seen before is lighting up the Southern Hemisphere.
The Oort cloud comet – known as C/2025 R3 PanSTARRS – will be visible in New Zealand skies for the next week.
Te Whatu Stardome astronomer Josh Aoraki told RNZ it can be seen about an hour after sunset.
“Anywhere in the country is going to get a good view,” he said.
Have pictures of the comet you would like to share? Send them to iwitness@rnz.co.nz
The comet captured from Hikurangi.
Photo: Supplied
Good weather was critical for viewing the comet, so checking the forecast in advance is a good idea, he said.
It was also important to find a viewing spot with an unobstructed view of the western horizon, he added.
“So, for example, on the West Coast is going to be a really good place.
“That’ll give you … [the] best viewing opportunity.”
The comet up close in the night sky.
Photo: Supplied: Lauren Gooch
It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity as the comet has an orbital period of about 170,000 years.
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