The phenomenon occurs when the Earth, the Moon, and Jupiter align in a straight line in space. Observers tracking the event witnessed the precise stages of the lunar occultation, starting with Jupiter’s close approach as it neared the bright lunar limb at dawn. This was followed by the ingress (entry), where the 38% illuminated waning crescent Moon caused the giant planet to completely disappear behind its edge. After being obscured for several minutes, the event concluded with the egress (exit), as Jupiter slowly reappeared on the other side of the Moon. Brunei Darussalam was positioned within the specific global viewing path, which also crossed Australia, Indonesia, India, and Malaysia.

The exact timing of the event varied slightly depending on the district. In Bandar Seri Begawan, the occultation lasted roughly 17.5 minutes, with Jupiter disappearing at 06:13 AM and reappearing at 06:30 AM. In Tutong, the event began at 06:10 AM and concluded at 06:33 AM.

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Although the phenomenon occurred during daylight hours, Jupiter’s bright magnitude of -2.0 and its high position in the sky allowed it to be observed using binoculars and telescopes. Stargazers began tracking the approach since predawn hours and observing Jupiter as a bright ‘star’ situated closely beneath the Moon.

This morning’s alignment is considered a rare astronomical event for local observers. The last visible lunar occultation of Jupiter in Brunei took place over a decade ago on August 6, 2016, and the next opportunity to witness this phenomenon from the Sultanate will not occur until April 12, 2038.

Local astrophotographers and members of the Astronomical Society of Brunei Darussalam (PABD) successfully documented the entire sequence from multiple locations across Brunei:

This event emphasizes the critical importance of monitoring space debris reentry. The brief four-day window between launch and reentry underscores the need for frequent tracking updates, accurate prediction models, and clear communication of uncertainties. Although the object fragmented upon reentry, surviving debris can strike the Earth without warning, posing a significant and growing risk of casualties.

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN – Multiple visual reports, video footage, and firsthand eyewitness accounts captured between 6:30 PM and 6:33 PM on Sunday, October 18, 2026, confirm the sighting of a prominent high-altitude luminous object traversing the skies across Belait, Tutong and Brunei-Muara districts. Following the event, the Astronomical Society of Brunei Darussalam (PABD) received dozens of eyewitness reports from across the country documenting the unusual occurrence.

Eyewitnesses across several locations provided detailed descriptions of the phenomenon (see Table 1). Fathin Khairunnisa, who observed the event while exiting the Jerudong Park Foodcourt heading towards the Tutong-Muara highway, reported seeing a fast-flying object moving upward to the left before disappearing behind thick cloud cover. She noted that the object possessed a vibrant red core transitioning into a blue and green tail, moving noticeably slower than a typical meteor but significantly faster than standard commercial aircraft. “I thought it was a military craft or UFO or space debris”, she added.

Additional reports came in from across the Sultanate, including Zaidah Mardani, who spotted the object outside Hua Ho Department Store, Gadong, around 6:30 PM after finishing groceries, describing a shooting star-like appearance with a distinct fume tail moving left and disappearing into cloud cover; Zulhilmi Zulkifli (24) in Jalan Lambak Kanan, Kampung Lambak ‘B’, who recorded the object while facing south at 6:33 PM; Shahreena who also saw the bright fireball-like object in the south-west direction in Kampong Kilanas at 6:32 PM; Muiz (19), who photographed the object from Sungai Tampoi, Sengkurong, after initially mistaking the glowing craft for an aircraft at 6:32 PM before recognizing its meteor-like streak with a small trailing piece behind it; and Iz’aan (27) in Rasau, Belait, who video recorded the intact object at 6:30 PM prior to visible fragmentation. Other witnesses who captured the event on video include Amal Lemari BN along the Jerudong Highway, Red_R in Kampong Tungku, Nadzirul Asyraf at Tutong Skateboard Park, Saddam Bakir at Tutong Civic Centre and a student Raziq Adaniy in Kampung Mata-mata, who all further documented the object’s prolonged path across the evening twilight sky.

Video recordings provided by eyewitnesses confirm several distinct flight characteristics (see Table 2) indicative of artificial orbital space debris re-entering the atmosphere. Unlike natural meteors that burn out within 1 to 2 seconds, this object maintained continuous visual emission for 20 to 30 seconds across a wide angular path. Its low angular velocity, steady shallow-angle trajectory, intense red-orange thermal glow, few glowing fragments trailing sparks and persistent smoke trail all strongly point to the upper-atmosphere break-up and re-entry of man-made satellite or rocket hardware.

Preliminary orbital tracking data strongly identifies the object as ZQ-2E R/B (NORAD 101070), a spent Zhuque-2E rocket body launched on October 14, 2026. Tracked by The Aerospace Corporation’s Center for Orbital and Reentry Debris Studies (CORDS), the high-altitude rocket stage passed directly over the region during its predicted uncontrolled atmospheric re-entry window on October 18, 2026, above more than 170 km based on the calculated satellite tracking and orbital mechanics Two-Line Element Set (TLE). Video recordings indicate that the object underwent extensive thermal fragmentation and vaporization high in the upper atmosphere.

Following local observations, PABD relayed eyewitness reports and submitted video footage to the International Astronomical Center (IAC), a scientific official center based in Abu Dhabi, for review and further analysis through its Satellite Reentry Monitoring Program. After examining the data, the IAC confirmed that the luminous object observed over Brunei was the atmospheric re-entry of a nearly five-ton Chinese rocket stage. The rocket body, operated by private aerospace company LandSpace, had been launched from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center to deploy satellites into orbit. Weighing approximately 5,000 kg, the spent rocket stage remained in orbit for only four days before atmospheric drag caused its gradual orbital decay and eventual re-entry over the Sultanate of Brunei on 18 October.

The IAC noted that while the intense thermal energy caused the stage to glow brightly and break apart into multiple luminous fragments along the same trajectory, it is not possible to confirm the complete burnout of all components without additional information, as heat-resistant parts can occasionally survive atmospheric transit.

[Update Oct 19, 2026 at 9.00 p.m.]

Ground Impact and Debris Recovery in Central Kalimantan, Indonesia

According to Professor Thomas Djamaluddin of the Indonesian National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), residents in Sampit, Central Kalimantan, reported hearing a loud roar or rumbling from the sky at approximately 17:30 WIB (18:30 Brunei time). Orbital reconstruction showed the ZQ-2E rocket body passing nearly directly over Sampit on a north-to-south trajectory, at around 120 km altitude. Subsequent analysis suggested this was the object’s final orbit, ending in atmospheric reentry and ground impact at 17:36 WIB (18:36 Brunei time).

On Monday morning, October 19, 2026, palm oil plantation workers discovered large torn metallic fragments at Sampit, Central Kalimantan. Investigation linked the debris to the ZQ-2E rocket body. As reported by AFP news, according to the local civil aviation spokesman, Zachrudien, the incident did not cause loss of life or property damage.

Table 1: Eyewitness Reports

Note: Eyewitness reports received through Facebook / Instagram messaging and comments are excluded from this summary. We greatly appreciate everyone who contributed their observations and helped document this event.

Table 2: What Is That Light in the Sky?

Statement by IAC on Space Debris Re-entry above Brunei Darussalam Oct 18, 2026

Space Debris ZQ-2E R/B Re-entry Event Timeline

As the evening progressed, the apparent separation between the two objects continued to decrease. Positioned very low along the western horizon, Venus appeared to drift downward and slightly to the right relative to the Moon, further tightening the visual conjunction. Shortly after 8:20 pm, the Moon and Venus set below the horizon. Beyond Brunei’s view, a Venus occultation—where the Moon passes directly in front of Venus—occurred and was observable from parts of Asia, Africa, Europe, and western Russia. Brunei was outside the visibility path for this occultation.

Brunei skywatchers observed a striking star‑and‑crescent symbol in the twilight sky. This lunar conjunction offered a vivid expression of cultural and spiritual heritage, with the brilliant Venus resting beside the fine silver crescent Moon and mirroring the timeless crescent‑and‑star motif. For centuries, this emblem has symbolised faith, guidance, and divine light, adorning Islamic architecture, minarets, flags and royal seals throughout the Muslim world. The phenomenon was also notably symmetrical, with the “evening star” Venus positioned near the centre between the crescent’s horns – making it an especially rare and visually remarkable occurrence.

A close‑up view of 4.5-magnitude bright Venus revealed a waning crescent phase, with approximately 32% of the planet illuminated (see photos). This phase occurs as Venus moves toward inferior conjunction, the point in its orbit where it passes between Earth and the Sun. Venus’s phase cycle spans roughly 584 days, progressing through new, crescent, first quarter, gibbous, full, and waning phases. The current waning‑crescent appearance indicates that Venus is decreasing in apparent size while its illuminated portion continues to shrink as it approaches inferior conjunction on October 24, 2026.

Planetary-lunar conjunctions can occur every month, though the degree of separation varies widely from one event to another. Between 2001 and 2100, only eight Moon–Venus conjunctions visible from Brunei during twilight achieve an angular separation of less than 0.5°, underscoring the rarity of such exceptionally close pairings. The tightest alignment will occur on 06 October 2051, when the two bodies approach an extraordinarily close separation of 0.0167°, coinciding with the appearance of the 1474H Safar hilal. A similar occurrence is expected on 30 November 2027 at 21:36, though with a larger angular separation of 0.5°.

Skywatchers from PABD and the BruneiAstronomy WhatsApp Group successfully captured the spectacular phenomenon:

This smoky filter has temporarily transformed the atmosphere, offering a surreal, crimson glow that photographers can’t resist. Swipe through to see how local stargazers captured this eerie phenomenon. If you’re heading out to shoot, stay safe and mask up!

A dedicated team of seven PABD volunteer members, headed by Norlida binti Haji Mohd. Yusof, led the outreach activities throughout the programme. The team set up multiple telescopes, guided participants through key solar features, and introduced basic astronomy concepts to visitors of all ages. Families had the opportunity to observe the Sun’s surface, explore safe solar‑viewing equipment, and discover how astronomy connects scientific understanding with daily life.

PABD extends its sincere appreciation to Parent-Teacher Association (PIBG) SM PDSM Mentiri for the invitation, collaboration, and the opportunity to inspire young learners and the wider community. The society remains committed to supporting educational institutions in promoting science literacy and fostering interest in astronomy across Brunei Darussalam.

Bandar Seri Begawan – Asteroid 1997 NC1 made a safe but scientifically significant close flyby of Earth on 28 June 2026, drawing attention from astronomers worldwide – including in Brunei Darussalam. The asteroid, measuring about 1 kilometre in diameter, is classified as an Aten‑type Earth‑crossing object and is estimated to be 50–60 times larger than the 2013 Chelyabinsk meteor. Despite travelling at an extraordinary 32,000 km/h, the asteroid appeared only as a faint magnitude‑10 point of light through small telescopes, drifting slowly across the night sky.

In Brunei Darussalam, members of the Astronomical Society of Brunei Darussalam (PABD) successfully documented the event from local observation sites. Using a telescope and camera system, the team recorded a 22‑frame time‑lapse sequence between 01:09 and 01:31 local time on June 28, 2026, capturing the asteroid’s subtle but steady movement. Each frame was taken at one‑minute intervals, allowing asteroid hunters to clearly track the object’s path as it passed through the constellation Ophiuchus.

The flyby also highlights the importance of monitoring Potentially Hazardous Asteroids (PHAs) – a category that includes objects like 1997 NC1 due to their size and Earth‑crossing orbits. Although this particular encounter was completely safe, PHAs are scientifically significant because they help researchers understand long‑term impact risks and refine planetary‑defence strategies.

PABD continues to play an active role in raising public awareness in Brunei Darussalam about near‑Earth objects by sharing observations, educating communities, and encouraging interest in how these celestial bodies are tracked and understood.

Bandar Seri Begawan – As Brunei Darussalam prepares for Visit Brunei Year 2027 – a campaign coinciding with His Majesty the Sultan’s Diamond Jubilee – the nation is opening its pristine natural rainforests and dark sky to a rapidly growing frontier in newly eco-tourism: Astrotourism.

Last night, June 20, 2026, the Astronomical Society of Brunei Darussalam (PABD) highlighted the sultanate’s stellar potential during a astrotourism showcase held under the “Nature Exploration” theme at the premier pre-launching ceremony of the Visit Brunei Year 2027 at Jerudong Park Garden.

The event reached a high point with a special royal visit. The PABD expressed its deepest gratitude and Menjunjung Kasih to His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen ibni Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Anak Isteri Anisha Rosnah binti Adam, who graced the showcase to support the nation’s expanding nature and astronomy tourism sector.

Supported by the Tourism Development Department, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, the exhibition emphasized how Brunei’s pristine, unpolluted night skies offer a serene and captivating space for exploration, seamlessly blending eco-tourism with the wonders of the cosmos.

During the visit, Their Highnesses spent time engaging with the local astronomy community. In a highly meaningful moment for astronomy outreach in Brunei, Their Highnesses graciously signed one of the PABD’s telescopes, cementing their support for the society’s educational and tourism initiatives.

The PABD and Tourism Development Department have been working closely to identify and protect pristine viewing sites for Milkyway observation and stargazing spots. With over 80% of its land covered in lush, undisturbed rainforest and a population density that keeps light pollution remarkably low, Brunei offers some of the most spectacular dark skies in Southeast Asia. Combined with its equatorial location at 4.9° N, visitors can experience year-round visibility of southern celestial phenomena that are invisible from the Northern Hemisphere.

With Visit Brunei Year 2027 on the horizon, the showcase served as a powerful reminder of the unique, untouched beauty Brunei has to offer. The PABD and Brunei Tourism are extending an open invitation to both locals and international travelers and amateur astronomers, especially strategic partners, to join in experiencing this celestial charm, and discover the universe from the heart of Borneo’s lush rainforests.

For more information, browse the official Visit Brunei Year 2027 website: https://www.bruneitourism.com/vby2027/

The programme began on the afternoon of May 16, with participants assembling at the Jerudong Park car park before departing in a 25 4x4WD vehicle line up. The convoy involved members of Brunei Overland and Expedition Group, BNSTYLE, and Jimny Brunei, who collaborated to support the journey into the rural interior.

Upon arrival shortly before sunset, the group was welcomed by Yang Mulia Haji Yassin bin Abdul Rahim Sap, the head representative of Rumah Panjang Julangan Titah Melilas. A safety briefing and programme overview were delivered, after which participants proceeded to set up their tents for the overnight stay.

During the evening stargazing session, participants learned to identify constellations and observed the planet Jupiter along with its largest moons before cloud cover temporarily obscured the sky. As conditions improved in the early hours of the morning, around 3 am, the clouds parted to reveal a striking view of the Milky Way arching across the horizon. Present during the observation were Yang Mulia Shahronizam bin Haji Md Noh, Penghulu Mukim Sukang, together with local villagers who joined the session.

With the Moon nearing its old phase, the rural landscape of Melilas – one of Brunei’s rare sanctuaries with a Bortle Class 2 Typical Truly Dark Sky rating – offered exceptional conditions for stargazing. Under these pristine skies, participants clearly observed the bright core of the Milky Way with the naked eye and captured astrophotography images with the guidance of 15 PABD members. The natural darkness of Melilas revealed the Milky Way in intricate, marbled detail, visible unaided in a way seldom experienced elsewhere in the country.

Muhammad Arif bin Ismail, Programme Coordinator for Dark Sky Melilas Adventure 2026, expressed PABD’s aspirations for the initiative, noting that the association aims “to increase public interest and knowledge, especially among the younger generation in rural areas, in the field of astronomy; to create greater awareness about preserving the natural environment from light pollution; and to make this expedition a catalyst for efforts to preserve dark sky areas in the country.” He also underscored the importance of strengthening collaboration with government agencies and local communities to expand access to astronomy and falak syarie educational activities, particularly in rural regions.

Beyond astronomy activities, the programme also featured a community outreach component led by the participants. Donations of food supplies and essential items were distributed to 14 families residing at the Rumah Panjang, while colouring books were presented to children in the village. PABD additionally contributed a dark sky awareness poster to the head representative of the long house as part of ongoing efforts to promote the protection of natural night skies.

The programme concluded with a closing speech by Hazarry bin Haji Ali Ahmad, PABD Secretary‑General, followed by the recital of Doa Selamat. Participants then commenced their journey back to the Jerudong checkpoint, marking the successful and memorable conclusion of Dark Sky Melilas Adventure 2026.

Press Release

The event was co-organized by the Astronomical Society of Brunei Darussalam (PABD) and the Peliunan Park Management.

Under a clear sky, participants recorded 99 bright meteors with few fireballs between 10 pm and 5 am – an average of 14 meteors per hour (ZHR) – streaking from the constellation Lyra.

With the Moon setting early, the suburban dark skies of Batu Apoi offered ideal conditions for viewing the annual meteor shower, produced as debris from Comet C/1861 G1 (Thatcher) entered Earth’s atmosphere at extreme velocity, leaving glowing ionized trails.

The event commenced in the afternoon on April 22 with tent setups and registration, transitioning into an “All-night Stargazing” session in the evening. Participants were treated to views of the Moon, planet Jupiter and bright deep-sky objects through the optical telescopes and smart telescopes.

The event comprised a specialized astronomy talk by the PABD Secretary General, Hazarry bin Haji Ali Ahmad. The presentation covered the science of the Lyrids meteor shower and raised critical dark sky awareness, emphasizing the importance of protecting the night from light pollution.

Held in conjunction with International Dark Sky Week, the session served as a call to action for the local community to join the global movement for dark sky preservation. By committing to responsible lighting, participants joined a worldwide effort to curb light pollution and protect the visibility of our universe and astronomical phenomena for the next generation

“Witnessing so many people connect with the night sky to watch the celestial wonder is truly inspiring,” expressed Hidayatullah bin Ahmad, PABD Programme Coordinator. “AstroCamp is more than just a meteor shower; it’s about building awareness, igniting a sense of wonder, and reminding us that we must all work together to preserve the natural darkness of our universe.”

Under the theme “Dark Skies, Falling Stars,” the program featured a dedicated Milky Way hunt and the “First Light” Lyrids Astrophotography Challenge. After observations concluded at astronomical twilight, participants gathered for the prize presentation. Muhammad Arif bin Ismail was named the astrophotography champion, taking home a Dobsonian telescope.

Photos by: Ak Muhd Adi Zulhilmi Bin Pg Yakub / PABD

PRESS RELEASED

This post will be updated from time to time as new information and comet development becomes available

Summary

• First identified by the Pan‑STARRS survey in September 2025 with its 1.8‑meter telescope atop Haleakalā in Maui, the comet later drew visual confirmation from veteran discoverer Alan Hale, who spotted it on 20 March 2026 using 10×50 binoculars at roughly magnitude 9.
• Its orbit is sharply tilted about 125° and its eccentricity slightly exceeds 1.0, suggesting it may be a first‑time visitor to the inner Solar System that will not return.
• A strong forward‑scattering geometry in late April, when the comet passes between Earth and the Sun, could significantly boost its apparent brightness.
• Forecasts remain unusually uncertain, with estimates ranging from magnitude 7–8 all the way to a dazzling –2.5, making this one of the most unpredictable comet brightness outlooks in recent decades.
• Live Comet Tracking is available: Comet Ephemeris

Updated: May 05, 2026

Rare Comet Sighting In Brunei Darussalam

The evening sky featured a stunning appearance of Comet C/2025 R3 (PanSTARRS) last night on May 05, 2026. Two weeks post-perihelion, it’s a naked-eye object at magnitude 5.3.

In the wide-field photo, the comet sits in Eridanus near Sirius and Rigel, with Venus reflecting over the sea in the west. Close-up photos show a striking tail and brilliant coma as it begins a 170,000-year journey back to the outer solar system.

Update: April 11, 2026

A Celestial Visitor

Comet C/2025 R3 (PANSTARRS) represents a significant subject for astronomical observation in mid-2026. Discovered by the Panoramic Survey Telescope and Rapid Response System (PANSTARRS), this comet follows a trajectory that brings it into the inner solar system, offering a window of visibility for both morning and evening observers

The cosmic wanderer was discovered on September 8, 2025, by the Pan-STARRS 2 telescope located at the Haleakalā Observatory in Hawaii. At the time of its discovery, the comet was extremely faint, with an apparent magnitude of approximately 19.8 – roughly 100,000 times fainter than what the naked eye can see.

It was found when it was still about 3.6 AU (approximately 540 million km) away from the Sun, well beyond the orbit of Mars. It is a long-period comet travelling on a steeply inclined retrograde orbit tilted about 125° to the ecliptic. This strongly suggesting an origin in the distant Oort Cloud. Its eccentricity exceeds 1.0, indicating that this may be a first-time visitor to the inner solar system that will never return,

Orbital Dynamics and Characteristics

Following its discovery, the comet has brightened significantly as it approaches its perihelion. The comet’s path is characterized by a close approach to both the Sun and Earth in April 2026. During this period, its distance from the Sun (perihelion) reaches a minimum of approximately 0.498 astronomical units (AU) or 75 million km around April 20, 2026.

Its proximity to Earth also peaks during late April, with its closest approach occurring at roughly 0.489 AU or 73 million km to Earth on April 26, 2026. As it nears these points (perihelion and perigee), its celestial brightness (magnitude) increases to 3.4, making it a more accessible target for telescopic and binocular even naked eye observation.

Although early estimates suggest the comet may brighten significantly, comet brightness is inherently unpredictable because these icy bodies can behave differently as they approach the Sun. Comets are made of dust, rock, and volatile ices. As they heat up, their activity can surge, stall, or even fade unexpectedly. Outbursts, fragmentation, or low volatile content can all cause a comet to appear brighter or dimmer than predicted. This is why astronomers treat brightness forecasts with caution, especially for newly discovered comets

Visibility Outlook from Brunei

Based on local ephemerides, the visibility of C/2025 R3 (PANSTARRS) from Brunei Darussalam follows a distinct transition from a morning object to an evening object during April and May 2026.

Above: A bright comet with a distinct sweeping tail rises against a star‑filled cloudy sky, captured from Brunei Darussalam in the early hours of 10 April 2026. The comet’s nucleus glows prominently at the center of the frame, while its tail fans upward. (Photo by Hazarry bin Haji Ali Ahmad / PABD)

Morning Observations (at 5:00 AM):
During early April – The comet is a pre-dawn object visible in the eastern sky. On April 10, the comet is located in the constellation Pegasus. According to Comet Observation Database (COBS), the observed magnitude of comet C/2025 R3 (PANSTARRS) is currently 5.1. It is expected to reach a naked-eye visibility of around +3 around its perihelion passage on April 20, 2026. Peak Morning Visibility – Its brightness improves through mid-April, reaching by April 20 at magnitude 3.4. After April 21, the comet’s altitude at 5:00 AM becomes negative as it begins its transition toward evening visibility, disappearing from the pre-dawn sky into the daylight. R3 comet and the Sun are in conjunction about 3.6° on April 25 at 8.20 pm (Brunei Time).

Evening Observations (at 6:45 PM):
As the comet moves past its closest approach, it becomes a prominent evening object in the western sky. Starting April 27, the comet appears at magnitude 3.7 above the horizon at 6:45 PM. Throughout May, the comet climbs higher in the sky at 6:45 PM but gradually fades. It moves through Eridanus (early May), Orion (mid-May), and eventually Monoceros. On May 10, it sits at an altitude of 27.4° in Orion with a magnitude of 6.6.

For observers in Brunei, the best views will come by facing the east‑north‑east before dawn in mid‑April, then shifting to the western sky after sunset from late April through May. While the comet is expected to remain brighter than magnitude 6, it may be visible to the naked eye in darker areas, though local light pollution will play a major role. By mid‑May onward, binoculars or a small telescope will become increasingly important for a clear view of the comet.

SUMMARY:

Event Overview: While it was a total lunar eclipse, the view in Brunei was largely obscured by clouds. Despite the weather challenges, the event served as a significant gathering for the local astronomy community in the Sultanate.

Community Engagement: Bruneian enthusiasts and members of the Astronomical Society of Brunei Darussalam (PABD) engaged in private observations and shared the event via live feed of the phenomenon and social media to ensure others could still participate in the experience.

Future Eclipses: The next time a total lunar eclipse will coincide with Ramadan is July 7, 2047. Upcoming lunar events for Brunei include a partial lunar eclipse on July 6, 2028, and a total lunar eclipse on December 31, 2028 (extending into New Year’s Day 2029).

This eclipse was especially meaningful as it occurred in the evening of mid Ramadan, a month when many families in Brunei are having sungkai (breaking the fast) and nightly prayers. The timing of moonrise eclipse allowed more people than usual to step outside, look up, and experience the event together.

A specific alignment of the Sun, Earth and Moon must coincide with the middle of the holy month for such an event to occur. A total lunar eclipse during Ramadan is exceptionally rare, repeating only once every 22 Hijri years – or roughly every 45 eclipse seasons, equivalent to about 21 years in the Gregorian calendar.

Eclipse Largely Obscured, but Partial Phase Visible
The eclipse began with thick clouds covering most of the eastern horizon. Many skywatchers couldn’t see the early stages at all in Brunei, and even totality was mostly hidden behind the cloud layer. But the excitement didn’t fade -everyone kept watching, waiting, and hoping for gaps in the clouds.

However, clearer skies during the later part of the partial phase allowed observers to catch brief but rewarding views. The Moon’s emergence from Earth’s umbra was visible through gaps in the clouds, revealing the curved shadow line across the lunar surface.

PABD Members Gather for a Private Observation Session
Persatuan Astronomi Negara Brunei Darussalam (PABD) conducted a private observation session at the residence of one of its members in Tutong, attended by five members, while other members also carried out their own observations from home. Telescopes and imaging equipment were set up early, and although the team faced long periods of overcast skies, they remained prepared for any moment of clarity.

These observations provided scientific values and visual experience of the eclipse’s progression for first time eclipse chasers.

Live from Tutong
A live stream from Tutong ran from 6.45 pm to 9.45 pm, providing public access to the eclipse. Despite facing the same cloud challenges as on‑site observers, the broadcast successfully captured close‑up telescope views of the partial phase as it transitioned into the penumbral stage. Viewers followed along in real time, sharing comments, asking questions, and updating one another on weather conditions across the country.

The live stream via all bruneiastronomy digital platforms became a focal point for the public, allowing many to stay connected to the eclipse despite limited visibility in few areas in the Sultanate.

Community Sharing
Members of the Bruneiastronomy WhatsApp Group played an active role throughout the night. As clouds shifted across the country, participants shared their own photos, sky conditions, and observing setups. Several managed to capture partial-phase images, contributing to a collective record of the event:

Although the total lunar eclipse was largely obscured by clouds, the event highlighted the dedication and unity of Brunei’s astronomy community. Through private observations, live streaming, and active sharing among enthusiasts, the eclipse became more than a visual spectacle – it became a moment that brought people across the country together to look up at the sky.

The next time a total lunar eclipse coincides with Ramadan will be on 7 July 2047. Before that, Brunei will experience a partial lunar eclipse on 6 July 2028, followed by a total lunar eclipse on 31 December 2028, which will continue into new year 1 January 2029. Clear skies, and keep looking up!

Bandar Seri Begawan – Despite challenging weather conditions, a group of fourteen members of the Astronomical Society of Brunei Darussalam (PABD) successfully conducted naked-eye observations of the annual Geminids Meteor Shower in the early hours of Sunday, 14 December 2025 at Kampong Sungai Mau, Belait.

The event, known as the “Geminids AstroCamp”, was held from 12:30 AM to 2:30 AM, during which members gathered to witness the celestial display and capture it through photography. Based on observations documented by the team, approximately 50 Geminid meteors were sighted, including several striking fireballs, despite limited visibility.

One participant, Muhammad Hidayatullah bin Awang Ahmad shared: “It was a challenging night for viewing, with nearly 80% cloud cover and overcast skies for most of the session. Nevertheless, the meteors we managed to observe, particularly the brighter fireballs, made the effort worthwhile.”

Despite cloudy skies, PABD member Mohamad Nur Raziqqien bin Abu Bakar captured a vivid Geminid meteor streaking across the prominent Orion constellation, which lies right next to Gemini – the radiant of the meteor shower.

The Geminids are widely regarded as one of the most reliable and spectacular annual meteor showers, originating from asteroid 3200 Phaethon. This year’s observation coincided with the shower’s peak between the nights of 13 and 14 December 2025. Under ideal conditions, the Geminids can produce as many as 120 meteors per hour (ZHR), making them a highlight of the astronomical calendar.

Meteor showers take place when the Earth, in its yearly orbit around the Sun, crosses paths with streams of cosmic debris released by comets or asteroids. These tiny fragments, often no larger than grains of sand, enter the atmosphere at tremendous speeds and incandesce due to friction with air molecules, creating the luminous streaks commonly referred to as “shooting stars.”

PABD thanked the Bukit Sawat Village Consultative Council (Majlis Perundingan Kampung Bukit Sawat) for their invaluable support in facilitating the AstroCamp.