A newly discovered comet is currently visible from Bengaluru and across southern India in the early morning sky, and the window to catch it is closing fast — observers have until approximately April 20 to spot comet C/2025 R3 (Pan-STARRS) as it approaches its closest point to the Sun before beginning its journey back into the outer solar system.
The comet is appearing low on the eastern horizon just before sunrise, making the pre-dawn hours of Wednesday, April 15 through Sunday, April 20 the most important remaining window for observers who want to see it before it begins to fade.
When and where to look
The ideal viewing window is between 5:00 am and 5:45 am local time. The comet appears low above the eastern horizon shortly before sunrise — which means observers need to be in position before first light begins to wash out the sky. A clear, unobstructed eastern horizon is essential, as the comet’s low altitude means even modest obstructions like buildings, trees, or hills will block the view entirely.
Dark sky conditions significantly improve the chances of a successful observation. Urban light pollution in central Bengaluru will make the comet difficult to spot even with optical aids. Observers willing to drive to darker locations on the outskirts of the city — or further into the countryside — will have substantially better results. Astronomy enthusiast Deepak Choudhary, who has been tracking and imaging the comet, captured clear images of it near Malavalli on April 12.
What equipment you need
While astronomers estimate the comet could shine between magnitude three and five at peak brightness — a range that in theory makes it potentially visible to the naked eye under ideal dark sky conditions — most urban and suburban observers will need optical aids. Small telescopes or smart imaging devices such as the Seestar S50 will provide clear views. Binoculars significantly enhance the view and are the most practical option for casual observers who want to spot the comet without setting up a full telescope.
Choudhary noted that the comet is not visible to the naked eye under most conditions and that smart imaging devices have been particularly effective for capturing it given its current brightness and low horizon position.
Why April 19 and 20 are the peak days
The comet is moving toward perihelion — its closest point to the Sun — which is expected on April 19 and 20. During this period it is likely to reach its peak brightness, offering the best possible chance of visibility for observers under dark and clear skies. After perihelion, the comet will begin moving away from the Sun and will gradually fade as it retreats toward the outer solar system. The April 19 to 20 window is therefore both the brightest and the last practical viewing opportunity from southern India.
The comet’s origin
Comet C/2025 R3 was discovered on September 8, 2025 by the Pan-STARRS telescope in Hawaii — a survey system specifically designed to detect near-Earth objects, asteroids, and comets by repeatedly imaging the sky and identifying moving or changing objects. The name Pan-STARRS in the comet’s designation reflects this discovery instrument. The comet is believed to originate from the Oort Cloud — the vast, distant reservoir of icy bodies located at the outermost edges of the solar system, extending tens of thousands of astronomical units from the Sun. Comets from the Oort Cloud are typically on extremely long orbital periods, meaning this may be the first and only time C/2025 R3 passes through the inner solar system in recorded human history.
Practical advice for Wednesday morning
Set an alarm for 4:45 am. Identify your viewing location in advance — ideally a rooftop, open ground, or any spot with a clear, low eastern horizon and minimal light pollution. Bring binoculars if you have them. Allow your eyes 10 to 15 minutes to adjust to darkness before attempting to spot the comet. Look low on the eastern horizon and scan slowly — the comet will appear as a faint smudge with a possible tail rather than a sharp point of light like a star. Check local weather forecasts the night before, as cloud cover will make observation impossible regardless of equipment.
The next few mornings are the last practical opportunity to observe this comet from India. It will not return.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Comet visibility depends on local weather, sky conditions, and observer location. Business Upturn is not responsible for any decisions made based on this article.