Stunning Images Shine at 2025 Capture the Dark Photography Contest
The 2025 Capture the Dark photography contest has concluded, showcasing breathtaking images that highlight the beauty of the night sky. This year, over 2,220 images from photographers across 22 countries competed, with the top honors awarded in various categories by a panel of esteemed astrophotographers.
Among the standout entries was a captivating image captured by JJ Rao, who documented vibrant red sprites above Derby, Australia. These elusive atmospheric phenomena, which occur above intense thunderstorms, last only a few milliseconds. Rao described his experience on Instagram: “I’ve read and heard about Red Sprites for a few years now and could have sworn I had seen a couple but it was nothing compared to this monster captured last night.” The image, which won first place, illustrates a large sprite known as a “jellyfish,” notable for its size and speed, making it challenging to photograph.
A Diverse Showcase of Talent
The contest, organized by DarkSky International, aims to raise awareness about the growing issue of light pollution, which increases at an alarming rate of nearly 10% annually. This environmental concern affects wildlife ecosystems and dims the visibility of stars, as noted by the organization in a recent press release.
Other impressive entries included “The Watchers,” also by Rao, which captured rare red sprites dancing over the tidal flats of Western Australia. This image emphasizes the difficulty of photographing such fleeting moments, as these sprites exist for merely 10 milliseconds, making precise timing essential.
The first place winner in the Young Astrophotographers category was Oldřich Špůrek, whose image titled “Gems of Jizerka” depicts the stunning transformation of a valley in a dark Bortle zone after sunset. “A few scattered huts, fleeting fog, and a lively yet peaceful atmosphere under the stars made this night unforgettable,” said Špůrek.
Celebrating Night Sky Photography
The contest featured numerous categories, with first-place winners including:
– **“Two Lovers Watching The Moonrise”** by Kevin O’Donnell, who won a location award from Visit Tucson.
– **“Paris, Asleep In The Pre-Dawn Hours”** by Gwenael Blanck, capturing the Pleiades above the city while highlighting energy-saving measures during the night.
– **“Starlight Highway”** by Tom Rae, showcasing the entrance to the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, one of the most significant dark sky reserves globally.
Other notable entries included “Kids and Comets” by Carly Stocks, which reflects her cherished moments with her children while photographing Comet C/2023 A3. “Chasing Comet C/2023 A3 with these two is one of my favorite memories,” Stocks shared.
Overall, the Capture the Dark 2025 contest not only celebrates the artistry of nighttime photography but also serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving our night skies for future generations. To view the complete list of winners and their stunning works, visit the DarkSky International website.
