The 31 Out-of-this-World Winners of Astronomy Photographer of the Year

Astrophotographers and night-sky observers gain a definitive new standard for celestial imaging as the year's top cosmic views enter the global public sphere. Earning a spot among the 31 honored entries delivers immense international recognition to the photographers, validating complex capture methods and countless hours of night observation.

For audiences, the resulting catalog delivers clear, striking perspectives on faint deep-space targets and atmospheric events. The results originate from the 2026 ZWO Astronomy Photographer of the Year competition, hosted by Royal Museums Greenwich and characterized by BBC Sky at Night Magazine as the world's biggest astrophotography contest.

A photograph of a nebula clinched the top award in the Royal Observatory competition, as confirmed by the BBC. Other selected entries feature standout astronomical sights, including imagery described as a space shark, "royal" auroras, and a "Venusian pearl." Initial announcements leave open how the specific equipment and shooting techniques behind these 31 winning frames will influence entry trends in future cycles, and whether Royal Museums Greenwich will mount a physical gallery showcase for the winning portfolio.