Core of Andromeda galaxy by Weitang Liang, Qi Yang, Chuhong Yu

The 2025 ZWO Astronomy Photographer of the Year competition, organized by the Royal Observatory Greenwich, showcased a wide range of astrophotography from around the world. The competition received over 5,500 entries from 69 countries, including submissions from both amateur and professional photographers. Categories included stars and nebulae, skyscapes, aurorae, our Sun, and young astronomers, reflecting the diversity and skill in the field.

Above Photo Credit: The Andromeda Core by Weitang Liang, Qi Yang, Chuhong Yu, is the overall winner of the ZWO Astronomy Photographer of the year 2025 competition

The entries ranged from detailed views of distant galaxies to auroral displays over landscapes, illustrating both the technical challenges and artistic creativity of astrophotographers. The competition also highlights the role of astrophotography in connecting the public with astronomy and fostering interest in space science.

Overall winner: Andromeda Core: The core of Andromeda galaxy

The overall winner was "The Andromeda Core" by Weitang Liang, Qi Yang, and Chuhong Yu from China. The image presents an exceptionally detailed view of the Andromeda Galaxy’s central region, compiled from 39 hours of observation. Judges praised the photograph for its clarity, depth, and composition, noting that it offered a fresh perspective on a well-photographed galaxy. The image demonstrates the combination of patience, technical skill, and artistic interpretation inherent in modern astrophotography.

Our Sun category

In the "Our Sun" category, James Sinclair was recognized for "Active Region of the Sun's Chromosphere." The photograph captured the Sun’s chromosphere with intricate details, highlighting magnetic loops and prominences. Capturing the Sun requires careful calibration and specialized filters to reveal features that are otherwise invisible. Sinclair’s work shows the balance between technical precision and aesthetic presentation, contributing both visually and scientifically.

Aurorae category

Chay’s "Crown of Light" depicted a vibrant aurora during a G5 geomagnetic storm. The photograph highlighted the interaction between charged solar particles and Earth’s magnetic field, creating vivid patterns and colors. Auroral photography requires skill in long exposure techniques and precise framing, often in challenging weather conditions. These images illustrate the dynamic relationship between solar activity and Earth’s atmosphere.

Skyscapes category

Fabian Dalpiaz’s "Moonrise Perfection Over the Dolomites" captured the full Moon rising above rugged mountain peaks. Skyscape photography blends terrestrial landscapes with celestial objects, creating harmonious compositions. Dalpiaz’s work emphasizes the connection between Earth and sky, demonstrating how careful timing and framing can enhance the visual impact of astrophotography.

Stars and nebulae category

Daniele Borsari’s black-and-white photograph of nebulae was recognized for its bold aesthetic and technical execution. Monochrome imaging emphasizes structural contrasts, revealing details that might be less apparent in color. Photographing stars and nebulae involves long exposures, image stacking, and careful processing to highlight faint features while minimizing noise. Borsari’s work exemplifies how artistry and technical expertise combine in astrophotography.

Photo Credit: Orion, the Horsehead and the Flame in H-alpha, by Daniele Borsari, won this year's Young Photographer prize

Young astronomer recognition

The Young Astronomy Photographer of the Year award encourages emerging talent. Daniele Borsari received this recognition, highlighting the creativity and technical skill of younger photographers. The award reflects the accessibility of astrophotography, as modern equipment allows enthusiasts of all ages to achieve professional-quality results and contribute to the field.

Exhibition and publication

The winning and shortlisted images are displayed at the National Maritime Museum in London, allowing the public to view these exceptional photographs firsthand. Exhibiting astrophotography in a museum context underscores both its educational and cultural value. A publication featuring all winning and shortlisted images is also planned, providing context, technical details, and insights into the photographers’ methods.

Techniques and trends in modern astrophotography

Long exposure remains a core technique, capturing faint celestial structures with clarity. Image stacking, combining multiple exposures, reduces noise and enhances detail. False-color imaging and narrowband filters highlight specific features in nebulae and galaxies, while monochrome processing emphasizes contrast and texture.

The integration of terrestrial landscapes continues to grow in popularity, creating skyscapes that combine Earth’s environment with astronomical subjects. Collaboration is another trend, with teams pooling resources and observation time to achieve higher-quality results. These developments demonstrate the global, communal nature of modern astrophotography.

Scientific and cultural impact

Astrophotography provides more than aesthetic value. Images of the Sun, auroras, galaxies, and meteors offer documentation that can support scientific research and public understanding. Competitions like ZWO Astronomy Photographer of the Year elevate astrophotography’s visibility, promote innovation, and encourage educational outreach. They inspire both photographers and audiences to explore astronomy and the night sky.

Best astrophotography shots from a global photo competition

The 2025 ZWO Astronomy Photographer of the Year competition highlighted a wide range of best astrophotography shots from around the world. From detailed images of the Andromeda Galaxy to auroras, meteor displays, moonlit landscapes, and nebulae, the competition showcased technical skill, creativity, and patience.

With entries from 69 countries and over 5,500 submissions, the competition illustrates the universal appeal of observing and documenting the night sky. The exhibition and upcoming publication ensure that these images reach a global audience, demonstrating the artistic and scientific achievements of photographers worldwide. These best astrophotography shots offer insight into the cosmos while celebrating the dedication and talent of those who capture it.

Photo Credit: Royal Musuems Greenwich - Weitang Liang, Qi Yang and Chuhong Yu holding their photo The Andromeda Core

The LRGB [Luminance, red, green and blue] version of the project showing fantastic dust details and sharp stars © Qi Yang, Chuhong Yu, Weitang Liang

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