A brilliant new 'star', about 100 times brighter than the brightest stars in the sky, has appeared over Ireland.
The twinkling celestial body in the south/southwest expected to remain on view for several weeks.
Astronomy Ireland said the 'star' is actually the planet Venus which is closer to Earth over the Christmas season.
"The planet Venus comes into evening skies around Christmas every few years, and gives rise to the whole story of what was 'the Christmas star'," he said.