Astronomy Photographer of the Year reveals stellar 2023 shortlists

Jellyfish Nebula © Peter Larkin/Astronomy Photographer of the Year 2023

Astrophotography enthusiasts, you’re in for a treat today. The Astronomy Photographer of the Year has announced its 2023 shortlists, and they’re as gorgeous as the starry sky on a warm summer evening. Speaking of starry skies, you’ll see some of them among this year’s shortlists. But of course, there are plenty more photos revealing what’s far beyond what meets our eye.

The contest is run by the Royal Observatory Greenwich, with the helping hands of Liberty Specialty Markets and BBC Sky at Night Magazine. In 2023, it got over 4,000 entries from both pros and hobbyists from all over the world—64 countries, to be exact. I can only imagine how hard it’s going to be for the judges to pick a winner.

Celebrating its fifteenth year, the competition is judged by a panel of seasoned pros from the realms of art and astronomy. The big reveal for the competition’s nine categories, two special prizes, and the overall winner will be on Thursday, September 14.

But there’s more. Starting on Saturday, September 16, 2023, you’ll be able to view all the winning images at the National Maritime Museum in London. Of course, there will also be an impressive spread of shortlisted photos to enjoy while you’re there. As a bonus, the competition’s official book will be available exclusively at the museum and online at the Royal Museums Greenwich website starting from the exhibition’s opening day. For the rest of us, it’ll be available online starting Thursday, September 28.

And now, I leave you to enjoy this year’s shortlists and explore the magnificent Universe through these magnificent photos. For more information, make sure to visit the contest’s website, and stay tuned for the winner announcement in September!