The winners of the Astronomy Photographer of the Year 2024 competition have been announced, with American photographer Ryan Imperio taking the top prize. His winning image, Distorted Shadows of the Moon’s Surface Created by an Annular Eclipse, is a composite of 30 separate photographs captured during the solar eclipse in Texas in October 2023. The image beautifully captures the optical phenomenon known as Baily’s beads, where sunlight shines through the Moon’s craters and valleys, creating a breathtaking effect.
This year’s competition featured 11 different categories, showcasing awe-inspiring photographs of galaxies, aurorae, and celestial landscapes. Each entry highlighted the beauty of space photography, with photographers using innovative techniques to capture moments that often go unnoticed by the naked eye. From shimmering auroras to distant galaxies, the selection offered a glimpse into the wonders of the universe.
The winning and shortlisted images will be displayed at the National Maritime Museum in a special exhibition. Visitors will have the chance to experience these stunning photographs firsthand, free of charge, starting later this year.
Dolphin Head Nebula
Silhouette
On Approach
M16: the Pillars of Creation
Starlight Highway
