Comet C/2025 R3 has made its closest approach. Observed by astronauts on the International Space Station, it was visible before sunrise on April 17, 2026. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s GOES-19 captured fascinating footage of the comet, which appeared unexpectedly while monitoring solar activity. The satellite’s coronagraph allowed viewing by creating an artificial eclipse, showing the comet crossing the camera’s view. Discovered in September 2025 by Pan-STARRS2 in Hawaii, the comet was expected to be the brightest of the year, although mostly visible through binoculars. It passed 45.5 million miles from Earth on April 26, flying through the constellation Cetus. Comets, formed billions of years ago, may have delivered essential compounds to early Earth. As they approach the sun, their ice sublimates, creating a glowing tail.
Bright Comet Photobombs the Sun on Space Weather Camera
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