Deep Space Objects

The Deep Space Objects category focuses on the distant wonders of the universe: galaxies, nebulae, star clusters, and other objects far beyond our solar system. These targets can be captured using long-exposure photography, remote telescopes, or processed data from professional observatories. Entries in this category might show the swirling arms of a spiral galaxy, the delicate filaments of a supernova remnant, or the glowing clouds of gas where new stars are born. Deep space images often use rich colors and high contrast to reveal faint details that are invisible to the unaided eye, giving viewers a sense of just how large and complex the universe really is.

Planets and Moons

The Planets and Moons category is for images that highlight objects within our own solar system. This includes close-up views of the Moon’s craters, the bright disk of Jupiter and its moons, the rings of Saturn, or even a well-timed shot of Mars at opposition. Many of these photos can be captured with modest equipment, such as a smartphone held to the eyepiece of a small telescope, making this category very accessible to beginners. Submissions may also include wide-field shots where a planet is visible against the background stars or near the horizon at sunset. The goal is to showcase the beauty and variety of the worlds that share our Sun.

Human Spaceflight & Technology

The Human Spaceflight & Technology category celebrates rockets, spacecraft, satellites, and the people who operate them. Entries might include dramatic launch photos, long-exposure “rocket streaks” across the sky, or images of the International Space Station passing overhead. You can also submit creative photographs of observatories, radio dishes, or even space-themed exhibits on campus. This category is a great fit for students interested in engineering and the human side of exploration, reminding us that behind every space image there are teams of scientists, engineers, and astronauts working together to push the boundaries of what we know.