The night sky has long inspired awe, curiosity, and creativity—and the 2025 ZWO astrophotography competition of the Year competition brings that inspiration to life. Organized by the Royal Observatory Greenwich in partnership with ZWO and BBC Sky at Night Magazine, this global astrophotography contest has released its much-anticipated shortlist, featuring mesmerizing images from around the world.
With over 5,500 submissions from 69 countries, the competition continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible when art and science collide in the form of celestial photography.
Why the 2025 Shortlist Stands Out
This year’s entries reflect a powerful blend of technical skill, creativity, and astronomical wonder. From solar eruptions and lunar alignments to auroras and deep-sky mosaics, each image captures a unique perspective of the cosmos.
Record Participation and Global Reach
- Over 5,500 entries submitted
- Photographers from 69 countries
- Now in its 17th year, this competition continues to grow in prestige and participation
Prize Categories and Awards
Main Awards
- Overall Winner: £10,000 (~$13,560)
- Category Winners: £1,500 (~$2,030) each
- Runners-up: £500
- Highly Commended Entries: £250
Special Prizes
- Sir Patrick Moore Prize for Best Newcomer
- Annie Maunder Open Category: For experimental and data-driven works
These awards not only recognize photographic excellence but also serve to elevate amateur and professional astrophotographers to global acclaim.
Breathtaking Images from the Shortlist
Moonrise Over the Dolomites
Photographer Fabian Dalpiaz captured a stunning moonrise perfectly aligned over Italy’s Dolomite mountains. This image showcases not only natural beauty but also precise planning and timing.
500,000-km Solar Prominence Eruption
From China, PengFei Chou photographed a massive solar prominence stretching across half a million kilometers. Capturing such dynamic solar activity requires patience, skill, and specialized equipment.
Neon Sun Art with NASA Data
Peter Ward’s entry in the Annie Maunder Open Category uses data from NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory to create a surreal, neon-inspired portrait of the Sun.
Aurora Over Mono Lake
Daniel Zafra captured a rare aurora with striking magenta and green hues over California’s Mono Lake—a stunning moment that reflects how cosmic phenomena can touch Earth in vibrant ways.
Total Solar Eclipse by a Young Talent
A young astrophotographer stitched together over 200 images to create a panoramic view of the 2024 total solar eclipse, demonstrating incredible technical mastery at a young age.
Exhibition and Ceremony Details
🗓️ Key Dates
- Winners Announcement: September 11, 2025 (online ceremony)
- Public Exhibition: Opens September 12, 2025 at the National Maritime Museum, London
The shortlisted and winning photographs will be on display, offering the public a unique opportunity to view the universe through the lens of global talent.
The Growing Impact of Astrophotography
Astrophotography is no longer just a technical pursuit—it’s become a form of scientific storytelling, a gateway to education, and a creative expression of humanity’s relationship with the cosmos.
🔭 ZWO’s Mission
ZWO, a leading provider of astrophotography equipment and sponsor of the event, emphasizes the importance of connecting people to the universe. By supporting this global competition, ZWO aims to foster curiosity and create communities that transcend geographical and cultural borders.
Why This Competition Matters in 2025
The 2025 edition of the Astronomy Photographer of the Year highlights more than just beautiful imagery. It showcases the evolution of astrophotography, incorporating data-driven designs, high-resolution panoramas, and groundbreaking compositions.
These images allow the public to see the universe in new ways and spark a sense of wonder that bridges art, science, and humanity.
Conclusion
The 2025 ZWO astrophotography competition of the Year shortlist is more than a competition—it’s a global celebration of creativity, exploration, and celestial beauty. As we await the winners this September, the shortlisted images already serve as a powerful reminder of our shared curiosity about the stars.
Explore the Cosmos with Us — Join NSN Today, and a preprint version is available on the repository website RMG.
