Astronomy Photographer of the Year Competition - Stars and Nebulae Category
£1,500 Category Winner Prize
The world's largest astrophotography competition, offering a grand prize of £10,000 and a prestigious exhibition at the National Maritime Museum. Open to photographers aged 16 and over.
Mode
Online
Fee
£10
Participation format
Individual
Duration
Competition typically runs from January to March annually.
Time needed
Depends on the time taken to make the entry
Eligibility
The adult competition is open to photographers worldwide aged 16 and over. There are no geographical restrictions. A passion for astronomy and photography is the key requirement.
- Age range
- 16 to 24 years
- Eligibility region
- Available nationwide across India
- Academic requirement
- No specific academic requirements. Open to all photographers, including amateurs and professionals.
- Prerequisites
- Basic knowledge of astrophotography techniques
- Access to a camera and potentially a telescope
- Image processing software skills
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 are awarded £250.
Prizes
Publication & Magazine Subscription
Winning images are published in the prestigious annual Astronomy Photographer of the Year book, and all winners receive a one-year subscription to BBC Sky at Night Magazine.
Recognition
International Recognition
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
- 1Register and submit up to ten images via the official competition website.
- 2Pay the non-refundable entry fee of £10 for the adult competition.
- 3Ensure submissions are completed before the closing date, typically in early March.
Rules and guidelines
- Images submitted must have been taken after January 1st of the year prior to the competition year.
- Photos that have been entered in previous years of this competition are not eligible.
- All entries are judged anonymously by an expert panel.
- Photos must have been taken after the specified date, usually January 1st of the preceding year.
Technology requirements
- Digital camera (DSLR, mirrorless, or dedicated astronomy camera)
- Telescope and mounting equipment (recommended for deep-space objects)
- Computer with internet access for online submission
- Image processing software (e.g., Adobe Photoshop, PixInsight)
Fees and financial support
Fee details
A one-off, non-refundable entry fee of £10 is required for each entrant in the adult competition, which allows for the submission of up to 10 images across all categories.
Refund policy
The entry fee is non-refundable.
About this opportunity
The Astronomy Photographer of the Year competition, organized by the Royal Museums Greenwich, is the largest and most prestigious astrophotography contest globally. It provides a platform for photographers of all skill levels to share their captivating images of the cosmos, from stunning skyscapes to detailed portraits of celestial objects.
Participants aged 16 and over can compete for the grand prize of £10,000 and the coveted title of Astronomy Photographer of the Year. Winning and shortlisted works gain significant international recognition through a major exhibition at the National Maritime Museum in London and are featured in the competition's official annual publication.
Rounds and format
Single round submission.
How entries are judged
Entries are judged anonymously by a panel of experts from the worlds of art and astronomy. Criteria include technical skill, artistic merit, and the originality of the subject matter.
Selection process
The judges will select a winner, runner-up, and one highly commended entry from each of the eight adult categories. The overall winner is then chosen from the pool of category winners.
Academic details
Difficulty: Mixed Levels
What's covered
Photographs of deep-space objects in the Milky Way galaxy, including stars, star clusters, supernova remnants, nebulae and other astro-photographic targets within the Milky Way galaxy.
Frequently asked questions
How do participants manage the high level of competition in this global contest?
Participants often focus on developing a unique artistic vision and mastering advanced technical skills. Engaging with astrophotography communities and seeking feedback can also provide valuable insights and motivation. Consistent practice and learning from diverse sources are key.
What are the key factors judges consider when evaluating entries for winning potential?
Judges assess technical excellence, originality of the subject matter, artistic composition, and the overall impact and storytelling ability of the image. Adherence to astrophotographic standards and innovative techniques are also crucial for standing out.
What preparation strategies can significantly improve a participant's chances of success?
Effective preparation includes meticulous planning of imaging sessions, thorough understanding of equipment, advanced image processing techniques, and a deep knowledge of astronomical targets. Reviewing past winning entries and understanding current trends can also be beneficial.
How does participation in this competition contribute to a photographer's long-term career or recognition?
Winning or being shortlisted in this prestigious competition offers significant international recognition, exposure through exhibitions and publications, and validation of a photographer's skill, which can open doors to new opportunities and collaborations in the field.
Are there specific technical requirements for image submission that participants should be aware of?
Participants should carefully review the competition rules for detailed technical specifications regarding image format, resolution, file size, and any specific guidelines on post-processing. Ensuring images meet these criteria is essential for eligibility and optimal presentation.
What kind of astrophotography equipment is typically used by successful entrants?
Successful entrants often utilize a range of equipment from advanced DSLR/mirrorless cameras with star trackers to dedicated astronomy cameras paired with high-end telescopes. However, creativity and skill can also lead to stunning results with more accessible gear.
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