Explore the Breathtaking Shortlist from the 2025 ZWO Astronomy Photographer of the Year!

Prepare to be captivated by a cosmic tapestry of a blood Moon rising, awe-inspiring auroras, and illustrious distant galaxies! The Royal Observatory Greenwich has unveiled the shortlisted masterpieces from the highly acclaimed ZWO Astronomy Photographer of the Year 2025 competition.

Celebrating its 17th year, this prestigious contest is not only the largest of its kind in the world but also a grand showcase of celestial beauty, drawing in over 5,500 spectacular entries from photographers hailing from 69 countries across the globe.

Highlights from the Shortlist

Among the breathtaking entries are stunning images like a moonrise painting the Dolomites in silver, vibrant red-hued Northern Lights capturing the tranquility at Mono Lake in California, and the striking sight of Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS). Each photo presents a unique narrative of our universe.

The Solar Eclipse That Stole the Show!

Naturally, the total solar eclipse of April 2024 was a star of the show, inspiring countless photographers to capture its breathtaking stages. A standout entry in the ZWO Young Astronomy Photographer of the Year category is a mesmerizing 22-megapixel panorama by Louis Egan, showcasing the solar eclipse from a vantage point in Canada.

Creativity Meets Innovation in the Annie Maunder Open Category

Previously named the Annie Maunder Prize for Image Innovation, this category allows entrants to unleash their creativity by transforming astronomical data in innovative ways. A notable entry is "Neon Sun" by Peter Ward, where images from NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory are reimagined with vivid colors, crafting a stunning illusion of the Sun enveloped in a glowing neon tube.

Mark Your Calendars!

The winners of the 2025 Astronomy Photographer of the Year will be revealed in a virtual ceremony slated for September 2025. Following the announcement, the winning shots, alongside a selection of this year's finest entries, will be showcased at the National Maritime Museum in London, opening its doors on September 12, 2025.

Join the Cosmic Celebration!

Stay connected for updates by following Royal Museums Greenwich on X, Instagram, and Facebook, or join the conversation using #APY17. In the meantime, let's also explore the dazzling shortlist of this year's best astrophotography images, featuring themes ranging from auroras and galaxies to breathtaking skyscapes.

Categories to Look Out For

Immerse yourself in the stunning visual archives of: - Aurorae - Galaxies - Our Moon - Our Sun - People and Space - Planets, Comets, and Asteroids - Skyscapes - Stars and Nebulae - Sir Patrick Moore Prize for Best Newcomer - ZWO Young Astronomy Photographer - Annie Maunder Open Category.