One of the most stunning pictures ever snapped by a NASA astronaut on the International Space Station has been named winner of the 2025 Milky Way Photographer of the Year competition, organized by Capture the Atlas. The photograph, which has been hailed for its unusual perspective and otherworldly composition, captures the Milky Way in stunning detail from the vantage of orbit.
In its 8th year now, the annual competition honors the majesty of the galaxy as seen through the lenses of astrophotographers around the world. This year’s selection includes 25 stunning images snapped in eight countries, from Chile’s Atacama Desert to Norway’s frozen wasteland.
It was not just the celestial purity of the winning photo that set it apart, but its uncommon point of view — shot from space, not Earth. This is the first time a photo taken by an astronaut has won top honors, demonstrating the convergence between space exploration and photo narrative.
Winning photos are now being showcased on the official Capture the Atlas site, with most to appear in international exhibitions and science outreach programs. The contest continues to inspire amazement and build public appreciation for the marvels of our galaxy.
