A cosmic triumph: Ali Alobaidly’s breathtaking victory
Ali Alobaidly has earned the coveted Royal Observatory Greenwich award for his mesmerizing image of the cosmic shark nebula. This detailed capture won the ZWO Astronomy Photographer of the Year 18 competition, accompanied by a £10,000 prize. Alobaidly’s photo, titled “The Quiet Predator,” features the Shark Nebula (LDN 1235), a dark, dust-enshrouded formation located 650 light-years away in the constellation Cepheus.
Judge Steve Marsh was captivated by the image’s sharp details and dynamic lighting, highlighting the nebula’s contrast against distant galaxies. Alobaidly expressed honor in winning, appreciating the talented photographers alongside him. He finds a poetic connection between this cosmic predator and the skies over Kuwait, reflecting his love for space and his heritage.
Alobaidly hopes to inspire others to explore the night sky, aiming to merge astrophotography with scientific endeavors to make astronomy more accessible.
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The nebula in inspiring future generations
Nikolaos Strimpoulis, a 15-year-old from Greece, claimed the ZWO Young Astronomy Photographer of the Year award with his vivid photo, “Mineral Moon.” Known for its mineral deposits, the Moon‘s subtle hues are often an overlooked wonder, spotlighted beautifully by Strimpoulis.
Judge Marsh praised the young photographer’s technique in revealing the Moon’s rich colors, encouraging others who start their astrophotography journeys with this celestial body. The celestial phenomenon continues to inspire budding astrophotographers with its mysterious allure.
Celebrating cosmic phenomena and astronomical artistry
The ZWO Astronomy Photographer of the Year 18 competition also lauded top entrants across eight categories, including the ZWO Young Astronomy Photographer of the Year section and two special awards. Each category’s winner receives £1,500, while runners-up and highly commended entries earn £500 and £250, respectively, with special prizes at £750.
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Dr. Greg Brown, competition judge and Royal Observatory Greenwich Astronomer, noted the impressive entries, showcasing the innovation and skill reflecting the cosmic wonders. Brown acknowledges the growing community of astrophotographers enhancing our cosmic view with each year’s competition.
The winning photographs will be displayed at the National Maritime Museum in London starting on September 18, 2026, September 18, 2026.
Source: petapixel.com
Frequently asked questions
Who won the Royal Observatory Greenwich award?
Ali Alobaidly won the Royal Observatory Greenwich award for his mesmerizing image of the cosmic shark nebula.
What is the title of Ali Alobaidly’s award-winning photo?
The title of Ali Alobaidly’s award-winning photo is ‘The Quiet Predator’.
Where will the winning photographs be displayed?
The winning photographs will be displayed at the National Maritime Museum in London starting on September 18, 2026.