- Comet C/2025 R2 SWAN has captured global attention as one of the most remarkable celestial events of 2025. Its appearance, visible from Oman’s night skies, was documented by the Oman Society of Astronomy and Space (OSAS), making it a major highlight for both astronomy enthusiasts and researchers.
Discovery and Origin
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Discovered on: 11 September 2025
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Discovered by: Ukrainian astronomer Vladimir Bezugly
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Confirmed by: Martin Macek using the FRAM telescope in Chile
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Instrument used: Solar Wind Anisotropies (SWAN) aboard NASA’s SOHO observatory
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Orbital period: Over 20,000 years , making it a long-period comet from the outer solar system
The SWAN instrument, originally designed to monitor solar wind, has helped identify multiple comets, and Comet SWAN is the latest addition to its list of discoveries.
Observation in Oman
The Oman Society of Astronomy and Space (OSAS) successfully photographed the comet across Oman’s night skies.
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Vice Chairman: Ibrahim bin Mohammed Al Mahrouqi described the event as part of OSAS’s mission to promote space awareness.
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Captured by: Al Jalandi bin Masaud Al Rawahi from a dark-sky site in Muscat Governorate .
Their efforts highlight Oman’s growing role in regional astronomical observation and documentation.
Path, Distance, and Visibility
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Closest approach to the Sun (perihelion): 12 September 2025 at 0.5 AU
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Closest approach to Earth: 20 October 2025 at 0.261 AU (≈39 million km)
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Brightness:
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Current location (November 2025): In the constellation Aquarius
Scientific and Cultural Importance
Comet SWAN provides valuable data for studying the composition and evolution of long-period comets , which originate from the outermost regions of the solar system. Its observation also strengthens Oman’s engagement with global astronomy and promotes public interest in space science.
Exam Facts
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Comet Name: C/2025 R2 SWAN
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Discovered by: Vladimir Bezugly (Ukraine)
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Discovered on: 11 September 2025
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Month: Current Affairs - November 06, 2025
Category: Solar System