Astronomy Photographer of the Year - Aurorae Category
£1,500 Cash Prize
5,882 participants
A prestigious global competition by the Royal Museums Greenwich, celebrating the world's best space photography, open to all ages and skill levels.
Mode
Online
Fee
£10
Participation format
Individual
Duration
The competition typically runs from early January to early March each year.
Time needed
Depends on the time taken to make the entry
Eligibility
Open to photographers worldwide, aged 16 and over. Both amateur and professional photographers are encouraged to participate. A passion for astronomy and photography is the primary requirement.
- Age range
- 16 to 25 years
- Eligibility region
- Available nationwide across India
- Academic requirement
- No specific academic or professional background is required.
- Prerequisites
- Access to a camera and photography equipment.
- Interest in astronomy and astrophotography.
See if your child qualifies.
Rewards and recognition
Award
£1,500
The overall winner receives a grand prize of £10,000. Category winners receive £1,500, runners-up get £500, and highly commended entries get £250.
Prizes
Subscription & Publication
All winners receive a one-year subscription to BBC Sky at Night Magazine and a copy of the official publication featuring the year's best photos.
Recognition
International Recognition & Exhibition
Skills your child builds
Key dates
Last edition
- Registration opened
- 5 Jan 2026
- Registration closed
- 2 Mar 2026
- Competition
- 5 Jan 2026 to 2 Mar 2026
How to apply
- 1Submissions are made online through the competition's dedicated website.
- 2Entrants can submit up to a total of ten images.
- 3A fee is required for the adult competition.
Rules and guidelines
- The Adult competition is open to anyone aged 16 and over.
- Unnatural or digitally enhanced composites are eligible but must be declared during submission.
- Entrants must not be involved in the organization of the competition or be employees of Royal Museums Greenwich or BBC Sky at Night Magazine.
- Photos must have been taken since January of the year prior to the competition.
Technology requirements
- A digital camera (DSLR, mirrorless, or dedicated astronomy camera).
- Telescope and mounting equipment (for deep-sky imaging).
- Image processing software (e.g., Adobe Photoshop, PixInsight).
- A stable internet connection for online submission.
Fees and financial support
Fee details
A non-refundable entry fee of £10 is required for each entrant in the Adult competition (aged 16 and over).
Refund policy
The entry fee is non-refundable.
About this opportunity
The Astronomy Photographer of the Year, hosted by the Royal Museums Greenwich, is the world's most prestigious astrophotography competition. The Aurorae category invites photographers to capture the northern and southern lights (Aurora Borealis and Aurora Australis).
This international competition is open to photographers aged 16 and over, from amateur enthusiasts to seasoned professionals. Key benefits for winners include substantial cash prizes, global recognition through a major exhibition at the National Maritime Museum in London, and significant media coverage, which can greatly enhance a photographer's career.
Rounds and format
Single round submission.
How entries are judged
Images are judged on their technical skill, artistic merit, and the originality of the composition. The judging panel looks for photographs that are not only visually stunning but also capture the wonder of the cosmos in a unique way.
Selection process
A panel of expert judges from the worlds of astronomy and photography reviews all submissions. They select a winner, runner-up, and highly commended entry for each category, as well as the overall winner from the adult category winners.
Academic details
Difficulty: Mixed Levels
What's covered
Photographs featuring the northern and southern lights (Aurora Borealis and Aurora Australis).
Frequently asked questions
What are the key factors judges consider when evaluating competition entries?
Judges prioritize technical proficiency, artistic composition, and the unique storytelling aspect of each photograph. Images that demonstrate a deep understanding of astrophotography techniques combined with a creative vision often stand out. Originality and impact are also highly valued.
How can participants manage the competitive pressure and potential performance anxiety during the submission period?
Participants are encouraged to focus on their passion for astrophotography and the joy of capturing celestial wonders. Engaging with online communities, seeking constructive feedback, and practicing mindfulness can help build confidence and refine skills. Remember, participation itself is a valuable learning experience.
What common mistakes should participants avoid when preparing their images for submission?
Common mistakes include submitting images that do not meet the technical specifications, failing to declare digital enhancements, or including watermarks or names on the image itself. Carefully reviewing the rules and guidelines before final submission is crucial to avoid disqualification.
Are there specific strategies for capturing compelling aurora photographs that stand out in the Aurorae category?
Successful aurora photographs often feature strong foreground elements, dynamic compositions, and accurate exposure to capture both the aurora's vibrancy and the surrounding landscape. Understanding aurora forecasts, planning your shoot location, and experimenting with long exposures are beneficial strategies.
How does participation in this competition contribute to a photographer's development and recognition?
Participating offers a platform for global exposure, peer recognition, and the opportunity to have work displayed in a prestigious exhibition. It can significantly boost a photographer's profile, encourage continuous skill development, and open doors to new opportunities in the field.
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