Galaxies 2025 – ZWO Astronomy Photographer of the Yr

Category winner and general winner

The Andromeda Core by Weitang Liang, Qi Yang and Chuhong Yu

The photographers say, “This image showcases the core of the Andromeda Galaxy (M31), captured in exceptional detail using a long-focal-length telescope. Taking advantage of the excellent seeing conditions at Nerpio, we focused on revealing the intricate structure of the galaxy’s central region and its surrounding stellar population. 

“A key objective of this undertaking was to spotlight the H-alpha emission areas inside Andromeda’s spiral arms. By fastidiously isolating and processing the H-alpha channel, we have been capable of improve the visibility of those ionised fuel clouds, which hint ongoing star formation. The distinction between these glowing areas and the encircling mud lanes provides depth and dimension, providing a contemporary perspective on this acquainted galaxy.

“This image is not just about capturing Andromeda’s beauty – it is an effort to bring out the dynamic processes shaping its evolution, from the birth of new stars to the influence of interstellar structures near its core.”

Taken in AstroCamp Observatory, Nerpio, Spain, 31 July, 2, 4–6, 14, 17, 20, 29, 31 August and 1 September 2024