The winners of the 2025 Capture the Dark photography contest have been unveiled, showcasing breathtaking images of atmospheric phenomena and starry landscapes. This prestigious competition, organized by DarkSky International, drew over 2,220 entries from photographers across 22 countries. The contest aims to raise awareness about light pollution and its impact on the night sky.
Among the standout images is a remarkable photograph of red sprites captured by photographer JJ Rao above Derby, Australia. These rare atmospheric events occur during thunderstorms and last for mere milliseconds. Rao’s photograph, which won first place, features vibrant red sprites and highlights the complexity of capturing such fleeting phenomena. In a post on Instagram, he expressed his excitement: “I’ve read and heard about Red Sprites for a few years now… but it was nothing compared to this monster captured last night.”
Highlighting Talent and Awareness
The judging panel, comprising experienced astrophotographers, evaluated images based on composition, technical skill, and adherence to DarkSky’s Principles for Responsible Astrophotography. The goal is not only to celebrate exceptional talent but also to address the serious issue of light pollution, which is increasing at nearly 10% annually worldwide. DarkSky International emphasizes that this disruption affects wildlife ecosystems and diminishes our ability to enjoy the night sky.
Another noteworthy entry is “Gems of Jizerka,” taken by Oldřich Špurek, which secured first place in the Young Astrophotographers category. The image captures a serene valley in Jizerka, which transforms into a magical landscape after sunset. This dark-sky area, classified as Bortle 4, provides ideal conditions for nighttime photography.
A Diverse Array of Winning Images
Several images were recognized for their creativity and technical excellence. The second place in the Visit Tucson Location Award went to “Two Lovers Watching The Moonrise,” shot by Kevin O’Donnell. Meanwhile, Gwenael Blanck won first place in the Dark Sky Friendly Lighting and Design category with “Paris, Asleep In The Pre-Dawn Hours.” This photograph highlights the Pleiades star cluster above Paris, emphasizing the beauty of a less light-polluted sky.
Other notable winners include “The Starlight Highway” by Tom Rae, which showcases the entrance to the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, and “Kids and Comets” by Carly Stocks, capturing a memorable family experience while observing Comet C/2023 A3.
The full list of winners can be viewed on the DarkSky International website, further emphasizing the organization’s commitment to promoting dark skies and responsible photography practices. As the contest continues to grow, it serves as a vital reminder of the beauty of the night sky and the need to preserve it for future generations.