Stunning Space Images Win Big at Royal Observatory Photo Contest

Award Winners

A striking image of a nebula has taken top honors at the Royal Observatory competition. The annual event, known as the ZWO Astronomy Photographer of the Year contest, announced its winners for 2026. This year's entries featured a wide range of dazzling celestial sights from across the universe.

Winning Sights

Among the standout winners captured by photographers were a cosmic formation resembling a space shark and vibrant auroras described as royal. Judges also honored a unique phenomenon dubbed a Venusian pearl. These impressive visuals highlight the skill of astrophotographers and the beauty of outer space.