Seeing a true night sky today is more of a luxury than a guarantee. That’s why images capturing its full beauty are increasingly appreciated and often feel like scenes from a fantasy.
The blog “Capture the Atlas” curates the most stunning images of our galaxy in its annual Milky Way Photographer of the Year collection, and the 2025 edition is nothing short of breathtaking. Out of the top 25 incredible photos, one stood out in particular, as it was taken from outer space!
So, without further delay, scroll down and take in the night sky in all its incredible glory.
#21 “Stairway To Heaven” By Marcin Rosadziński
Madeira Island, Portugal.
Taken in April 2024 on Madeira Island, this photo is a 14-panel mosaic (7 for the sky, 7 for the foreground). It shows the arc of the Milky Way over a rocky hill, giving the impression it’s suspended in the air. The wide angle reveals a vast stretch of the galaxy, with hydrogen nebulae glowing red. From right to left, you can see the constellations of Sagittarius, Ophiuchus, and Scorpius, along with the colorful Rho Ophiuchi and red-glowing Lagoon, Omega, and Eagle Nebulae. In the constellations of Cygnus and Cepheus, you can spot the North America and Elephant’s Trunk Nebulae.
The photo was taken at Pedra Rija, 1,800 meters above sea level, one of the island’s most beautiful viewpoints, accessed via the challenging PR1 mountain trail. Getting there with a 10kg backpack was tough, and after a sleepless night, the uphill return to the parking lot near Pico do Areerio was a real challenge. A sea of clouds illuminated by city lights adds extra beauty to the shot. On May 29th, 2024, it was featured as NASA’s Astronomy Picture of the Day.
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#22 “A Stellar View From The Cave” By Anthony Lopez
Saint Raphael, France. Framed by the rugged mouth of a coastal cave, this image captures the heart of the Milky Way rising over the Mediterranean Sea. Taken during the peak of the Galactic Core season last May, it blends the natural beauty of the foreground with the awe-inspiring vastness of the cosmos. A winding road, illuminated by passing cars, creates a dynamic trail of light that guides the eye toward the stars above. This photo is a reminder that magic often hides in the most unexpected places. All it takes is a little patience, planning, and passion.
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