Greenwich Observatory announces Astronomy Photographer of the year shortlist

The competition is run by the Royal Observatory Greenwich, supported by Liberty Specialty Markets, and in association with BBC Sky at Night Magazine. 

And saw this competition receive over three thousand entries from passionate amateur and dedicated professional photographers, submitted from sixty-seven countries across the globe.

This year's shortlist included photos of the Harvest Moon rising behind the Glastonbury Tor, the lights of the Milkey Way mirrored by the highest national highway in the world in Tibet.

The Starry Sky Over the World’s Highest National Highway © Yang Sutie

As well as, one of the most detailed amateur-produced maps of the lunar south pole, created in the United States, a partial solar eclipse over Italy, and the Southern Pinwheel Galaxy captured in Australia exactly 270 years after its discovery.

Many entrants this year capture the theme of the impact of pollution and light pollution on astrophotography.

Sean Goebel captured his harmonious image of the moon aligning with the iconic Los Angeles skyline thanks to a winter storm dispersing the haze of pollution and allowing a clear view.

Circles and Curves by Sean Goebel

Now in its fourteenth year, Astronomy Photographer of the Year has an expert panel of judges from the worlds of art and astronomy. 

The winners of the competition’s nine categories, two special prizes and the overall winner will be announced at a special online award ceremony on Thursday 15 September.

Followed by the winning images will be displayed in an exhibition at the National Maritime Museum from Saturday 17 September, alongside a selection of exceptional shortlisted images.

The competition’s official book, being published on 29 September will also showcase the winning and shortlisted entries. 

See the full shortlist via the Royal Observatory Website.