Washington, April 14 (SANA) Comet PanSTARRS is expected to be one of the most notable celestial events of 2026, as it approaches Earth and reaches peak brightness later this month.
Discovered on September 8, 2025, by telescopes at the PanSTARRS Observatory in Hawaii, the comet originated in the distant Oort Cloud.
Scientists say it remains uncertain whether the comet will be visible to the naked eye or require binoculars or small telescopes, depending on viewing conditions such as clear skies and low light pollution.
Key dates: perihelion and closest approach
The comet is expected to reach its perihelion on April 19–20, passing within about 76 million kilometers of the Sun and crossing the orbit of Venus. It will make its closest approach to Earth on April 27 at a distance of around 71 million kilometers, when it is likely to appear at its brightest.
As it passes close to the Sun, the comet could disintegrate or partially vaporize due to intense heat, though it may also survive and continue its path through the solar system.
Scientists say the event offers an opportunity to study long-period comets and their interaction with solar radiation.
Observers are advised to watch for the comet between April 10 and 20, although visibility will depend on weather and viewing conditions. Such appearances are rare, as comets from the Oort Cloud can take thousands of years to return.
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