ZWO Astronomy Photographer of the Year 2025: Meet the Finalists

The ZWO Astronomy Photographer of the Year competition has unveiled its 30 finalists for 2025, showcasing breathtaking images that capture the beauty and complexity of the cosmos. This esteemed competition, organized by the Royal Observatory Greenwich in partnership with ZWO and BBC Sky at Night Magazine, received over 5,500 entries from photographers hailing from 69 countries, reflecting a diverse global passion for astronomy and photography.

Among the standout submissions are stunning depictions of the Milky Way, vibrant auroras, and serene galaxies. Notable finalists include Louis Egan, whose panoramic image of a solar eclipse highlights the different stages of this celestial phenomenon, and Deqian Li’s imaginative capture of the supernova remnant Abell 85, evoking the likeness of a pomegranate. Each selected photograph exemplifies not only technical skill but also artistic vision, offering viewers unique perspectives on the universe.

The competition’s overall winner will be awarded £10,000 ($13,555), while runners-up will receive smaller cash prizes and subscriptions to BBC Sky at Night Magazine. The winners will be announced on September 11, 2025, with an exhibition of the winning images and other notable entries opening at the National Maritime Museum shortly thereafter.

The 2025 competition was particularly notable due to the recent solar eclipse visible across North America, which served as a focal point for many entries. A highlight among the submissions is a 22-megapixel panorama by Louis Egan that captures this astronomical event in its entirety. The image demonstrates not only the technical prowess of the photographer but also the emotional resonance of witnessing such a rare event.

Experts in astrophotography and astronomy have praised the competition for its role in promoting awareness and appreciation for celestial phenomena. Dr. Sarah Johnson, a Professor of Astronomy at the University of California, Berkeley, commented, "This competition not only highlights the beauty of our universe but also encourages the next generation of astronomers and photographers to engage with the night sky."

In addition to traditional categories, the competition has introduced the Annie Maunder Open Category, inviting participants to explore innovative approaches to astronomy art. This year’s entries include an experimental piece by Peter Ward, titled Neon Sun, which utilizes data from NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory to create a visually striking representation of the sun’s corona, remapped with vibrant colors.

The competition continues to evolve, reflecting advancements in astrophotography techniques, equipment, and the growing accessibility of astronomy to the general public. As the field of astrophotography expands, so too does the opportunity for amateur and professional photographers alike to capture the wonders of the universe.

The exhibition of winning images will be complemented by a commemorative book published by Collins in association with Royal Museums Greenwich, available at the exhibition and subsequently in bookstores. As the astronomical community eagerly anticipates the announcement of the winners, there is a palpable excitement about the potential for these images to inspire both awe and curiosity about our universe.