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

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

The night features guided stargazing, planetary viewing, milky way hunting and the “First Light” Astrophotography Challenge, where the first attendee to capture a meteor alongside the Milky Way wins a Dobsonian telescope. To preserve the viewing environment, a strict “Red Light Only” policy will be enforced after 10:00 PM to protect everyone’s night vision.

Spaces are limited and registration is required. Pack your camping gear and head to Kampong Batu Apoi for an unforgettable night of “Dark Skies and Falling Stars.” For more details or to book your slot, visit https://bruneiastronomy.org/web/meteorcamp2026/

Summary: From Papar’s new observatory to Kota Belud’s rivers and Kudat’s legendary dark skies, our Ramadan Milkyway Hunt 2026 became an adventure of shared stories, coastal cooking, stargazing marathons, and breathtaking landscapes – a journey where Sabah’s beauty, its people, and the cosmos came together in one unforgettable experience. Most of all, we travelled with incredible people, AstroFalak expert, Dark Sky Rangers, and friends who turned every moment into a memory. A celestial travelogue.

From 20 to 24 February 2026, our journey unfolded across the sweeping landscapes of Kota Kinabalu, Papar, Kota Belud, and Kudat – five days on the road in two cars, tracing the northern curve of Borneo in search of its darkest skies. Sabah has long been whispered about among stargazers as one of Southeast Asia’s most promising frontiers: vast stretches of countryside untouched by heavy light pollution, horizons that open wide in every direction, and coastal plains where the night sky rises unobstructed from the sea. Under these conditions, the Milky Way reveals its full glory, meteor trails carve bright arcs overhead, and deep‑sky objects emerge with a clarity rarely seen in more urban settings. Drawn by this promise, seven members of the Astronomical Society of Brunei Darussalam (PABD) set out to experience Sabah’s celestial wilderness firsthand – an overland expedition shaped by curiosity, camaraderie, and the timeless pull of the stars.

Our first stop was the Kompleks Balai Cerap Saizwagger 2 in Papar, an observatory operated by Dr. Hj. Sairin, an astrofalak expert. The building itself reflected a strong astronomy theme, with planetary designs throughout the interior. Even the small details, such as bedsheets and floor tiles designed with compass directions, created a space that felt intentionally connected to celestial observation. From the sixth floor, the landscape stretched across distant mountains and hazy horizons, illustrating how observatories are often located in elevated areas to minimise atmospheric obstruction and artificial light.

The night sky at Papar was one of the most memorable moments of the trip. In the early hours before dawn, the Milky Way appeared clearly across the sky, stretching horizontally along the horizon. Because the surrounding area has relatively low light pollution, the structure of the galaxy was visible to the naked eye. The densest and brightest part of the band was the Galactic Center, the region where billions of stars are concentrated around the core of our galaxy. Seeing this glowing band of light above us gave a powerful sense of scale, reminding us that our solar system exists within a much larger cosmic structure. Also, during the observation session, we spotted meteors streaking across the sky and identified several constellations such as Scorpius, Norma, Ara, Sagittarius, and more.

The following morning, we travelled to Kota Belud and stayed at Tagudon Tourist Village, located near the foothills of Mount Kinabalu. The campsite offered clear views of both the river and the surrounding mountains, demonstrating another key factor in astronomical observation: open landscapes with minimal visual obstructions. That evening, we met Emma Zulaiha Zulkifli, founder of Dark Sky Malaysia, who shared insights about public astronomy outreach and efforts to promote dark-sky awareness. Although rain prevented stargazing that night, discussions around the campfire highlighted the important role that astronomy communities play in fostering environmental awareness and scientific curiosity.

Our journey continued to Kudat, located at the northern edge of Borneo. Along the drive, we observed rural infrastructure, such as solar panels used to generate electricity in remote communities. These systems are particularly important in areas where reducing artificial light also helps preserve darker skies. After arriving in Kudat, we stopped by a small seashell stall near the beach. The stall sold real seashells collected from the coastline, ranging from RM5 to RM35 – Each of us bought one or two shells as souvenirs.

At night, we travelled to the Tip of Borneo, the northernmost point of the island. The coastal location offers unobstructed horizons facing the open sea, making it an ideal site for night-sky observation. During our observation session, we also learned how to use the Starsense Explorer, along with the Sky Map on the phone, to navigate the night sky. By using the digital sky map, we were able to identify constellations and immediately locate specific celestial objects such as stars, planets, and nebulae through the telescope. Using the digital smart telescope, ZWO Seestar S50, we captured images of the Orion Nebula and the star cluster Messier 67. Even with limited time and travel fatigue, the sky revealed countless stars, constellations, and distant galaxies.

The monument at the Tip of Borneo also reflects the place’s cultural history. Known locally as Tanjung Simpang Mangayau, it is connected to the history of the Rungus people, whose folklore describes the area as a place where their ancestors defended their territory. Learning about these stories added another layer of meaning to the landscape. It reminded us that places like this are not only beautiful for astronomy but also rich in culture and history.

Overall, the journey demonstrated why Sabah is increasingly recognised as a valuable stargazing destination. Its combination of rural landscapes, coastal horizons, and growing astronomy communities creates an environment where both science and cultural appreciation of the night sky can thrive.

Beyond the astronomical experiences and breathtaking landscapes, the journey was also meaningful because of the people who shared the experience together. My sincere appreciation goes to Uncle Azaharry, Ka Jannah, Ka Ema, Mumtazah, Nazhif, and Adi Zulhilmi for helping capture great photographs throughout the trip and for making the journey both smooth and memorable. Travelling together, sharing meals, preparing for iftar and sahur, and standing under the vast night sky made the experience even more meaningful. It is a journey that truly filled my heart with gratitude. Salam Ramadan.

New members are encouraged to check their email for further details and access instructions (reminders to review their spam folders). For updates and orientation access, joining the official PABD 2026 group on Microsoft Teams. Inquiries can be directed to pabd@bruneiastronomy.org or executive@bruneiastronomy.org.

To accommodate different preferences, the event will be held in two formats: in-person gathering on Friday, 28 November 2025 at D’Venue Co, Batu Bersurat; and a virtual session via Google Meet on Saturday, 29 November 2025. Kindly RSVP before Wednesday, November 26, 2025, by login on PABD2026 Community via MS Teams.

Participants will be introduced to the Society’s outreach initiatives, collaborative programs, and the role of amateur astronomers in fostering scientific curiosity and public engagement. The orientation also serves as a platform to build connections among members and to cultivate a shared commitment to astronomical education and cultural enrichment.

About 40 individuals have newly registered for PABD membership in 2026, reflecting a growing interest in astronomy and science outreach within Brunei Darussalam. This encouraging response underscores the PABD’s expanding reach and its appeal to youth, families, and lifelong learners. The upcoming orientation will serve as a meaningful first step in integrating new members into the Society’s vibrant community of stargazers.

Current active PABD members who wish to attend the orientation are cordially invited to participate. Interested individuals are requested to email the Secretary-General (pabd@bruneiastronomy.org) at their earliest convenience and to join the official PABD 2026 group on Microsoft Teams and WhatsApp to receive updates and access details.

This is the second and final reminder regarding your expired PABD membership.

The annual membership fee remains unchanged:
BND 15.00 per year for Ordinary Membership;
BND 5.00 per year for Student Membership.

Please renew your membership immediately by settling all outstanding fees before 31 December 2025 with the PABD Treasurer and Deputy Secretary I. (Receipt & Inquiry: +6737346888 or executive(at)bruneiastronomy.org)

Accordingly, through this notice, any member who fails to settle their dues without a valid written justification shall be deemed to have ceased membership with PABD, effective 01 January 2026.

SECRETARY-GENERAL
pabd@bruneiastronomy.org
08 Jamadilawal 1447 /30 October 2025

This is the first reminder you will receive regarding your expired PABD membership.

Rates of annual fee have remained unchanged:

• BND 15.00 per year for Ordinary membership;
• BND 5.00 per year for Student membership.

Please renew your membership by settling all outstanding fees before 31 December 2025 with the PABD Treasurer to avoid termination of membership.

SECRETARY-GENERAL
pabd@bruneiastronomy.org
18 Rabiulawal 1447 /10 September 2025

Bandar Seri Begawan – On the late night of Sunday, 7 September 2025, into the early hours of Monday, 8 September, the skies over Brunei Darussalam will host a rare total lunar eclipse.

A total lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth aligns perfectly between the Sun and the Moon, casting its umbra (central shadow) across the lunar surface. As the Moon passes through this shadow, it gradually darkens and transforms into a deep reddish hue, often referred to as a Blood Moon. This coloration is caused by Rayleigh scattering – the same phenomenon that paints sunsets red – as Earth’s atmosphere filters and bends sunlight, allowing only longer wavelengths to reach the Moon.

Unlike solar eclipses, lunar eclipses are safe to observe with the naked eye, and they can be seen from anywhere on Earth where the Moon is above the horizon during the event.

This eclipse will be visible across Asia, Australia, Africa, Europe, and parts of the Pacific and Indian Oceans. It is expected to be the longest total lunar eclipse since 2022, with totality lasting approximately 1 hour and 22 minutes, and the entire eclipse spanning over 5 hours. According to Timeanddate, an estimated 85.86% of the world’s population will witness at least part of the total phase, with 76.59% experiencing the full spectacle from start to finish.

Above: 2025 Sep 07-08 Total Lunar Eclipse worldwide visibility map by F. Espanak (NASA)

In Brunei Darussalam, the 1.3619-umbral magnitude eclipse will be fully visible from start to end. Key timings in Brunei Darussalam Time (GMT+8) are as follows:

Penumbral Eclipse Begins: 11:28 p.m. (7 Sep)
Partial Eclipse Begins: 12:27 a.m. (8 Sep)
Totality Begins: 1:30 a.m. (8 Sep)
Maximum Eclipse: 2:11 a.m.
Totality Ends: 2:52 a.m.
Partial Eclipse Ends: 3:56 a.m.
Penumbral Eclipse Ends: 4:55 a.m.

Click Here for LIVE Countdown of the Lunar Eclipse Phases

Above: 2025 Sep 07-08 Total Lunar Eclipse information and official time of contact by F. Espanak (NASA)

Weather permitting, this will be a prime opportunity for photography and public observation. With 100% obscuration and 82-minutes totality, observers in Brunei will enjoy an uninterrupted view of the Moon’s transformation. Such long-duration total eclipses are relatively rare, making this event a highlight of the decade for skywatchers.

Above: A ranked list of total lunar eclipses in the 21st century, arranged by duration of totality from longest to shortest. The September 2025 eclipse holds the 28th position out of 85, making it one of the longest of the century.

This eclipse is part of Saros cycle 128, and is the 41st of 71 eclipses in the series. Occurring just 2.6 days before lunar perigee, the Moon will appear slightly larger than usual, enhancing the visual impact. The September eclipse also coincides with the Full Moon of Rabiulawal.

In Islamic tradition, eclipses are regarded as signs of Allah’s majesty, not omens tied to human events. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ emphasized that: “The sun and the moon are two signs among the signs of Allah. They do not eclipse because of someone’s death or life. So, when you see them, invoke Allah and pray till the eclipse is clear.” – Hadith, Sahih Bukhari.

A Guide to a Total Lunar Eclipse

Public Lunar Eclipse Observation in Brunei Darussalam

Join us for an unforgettable evening under the stars as we witness a breathtaking celestial event! The Astronomical Society of Brunei Darussalam (PABD) invites the public to a special observation session for the upcoming lunar eclipse.

This is a unique opportunity to learn about the cosmos, witness the moon turn a stunning shade of red, and connect with fellow astronomy enthusiasts. Our astronomy volunteers will be on hand to explain the science behind the eclipse and answer all your questions. We will provide telescopes for a closer look, but feel free to bring your own binoculars/telescope or camera to capture this magnificent moment.

Weather Subject to Change: Please note that this event is subject to weather conditions. Clear skies are essential for the best viewing experience. We will provide updates on our social media channels regarding the weather forecast and any potential changes to the event schedule.

Whether you’re a seasoned stargazer or just curious about the night sky, this event is perfect for all ages. A celestial wonder awaits—experience the moon’s transformation under Brunei’s night sky.

Find us here:

(a) Dewan Serbaguna Kampong Sungai Mau (More Info https://bruneiastronomy.org/astrocamp/)

(b) BKISHHB

Press Release

Despite persistent rain and fog blanketing much of the predawn sky, observers successfully recorded 8 meteors during a focused one-hour window.

Beyond meteor counting, the activities also featured sky quality measurements and general skywatching.

With the Perseids nearing their peak, astronomy enthusiasts are encouraged to begin early observations. Meteors are now already visible under clear skies, especially with minimal interference from moonlight.

The event was designed with two key goals: To make astronomy approachable and inspiring for the general public, including casual visitors to Jerudong Park, and to foster curiosity and scientific wonder through direct telescope observation of celestial objects.

Over 300 attendees, ranging from astronomy enthusiasts to first-time stargazers, gathered at walkway outside Jerudong Park Food Court during the three evenings to peer through telescopes and connect with the cosmos.

Main activities included:
i. Stargazing: Visitors observed the Full Moon at close-up view that revealed cratered surface, glimpsed of bright deep sky objects such as star clusters and identifying the constellation Scorpio.
ii. Interactive Guidance: PABD members were on hand to explain celestial phenomena such as the moon phases.
iii. Astrophotography: Many visitors took the opportunity to snap their own images of the Moon using smartphone cameras through telescope eyepieces capturing lunar surface at high magnification.

Various telescopes, including refractors, reflectors, and smart telescope models, were stationed around the venue, enabling visitors to experience different methods of observation.

Sidewalk Astronomy, originally popularised by amateur astronomers in 1965, gradually evolved into a global initiative embraced by the astronomy community. In Brunei Darussalam, this initiative was first introduced by PABD in 2007, inspiring the public to look up and reconnect with the wonders of the night sky.

“Some of our visitors had never seen the Moon’s surface in such detail—the craters, lunar highlands and the topography. For many, it was their first real experience with astronomy. Seeing their excitement and awe has been deeply rewarding for us as organisers,” shared Mohammad Husaini bin Ali Hassan, PABD member.

Press Release:

 Stargazing at Jerudong Park! 

Join us for Sidewalk Astronomy from July 10–12, 2025 from 5.30 p.m. until 10.30 p.m. at Jerudong Park Food Court.

Peer through 8-inch reflectors and smart telescopes as we explore the Full Moon, dazzling star clusters, and more.

Meet passionate PABD amateur astronomers ready to guide you through celestial sights and answer your cosmic questions.

 Event is subject to weather conditions.

Follow us @bruneiastronomy for real-time updates and night-by-night alerts!