2024’s Best Astrophotos: A Year Of Solar Eclipse, Meteor Showers, Comets, And More!

In 2024, amateur and professional astrophotographers captured breathtaking moments that took us on a journey through space. Throughout the year, we compiled numerous stunning collections of the best astronomy shots, showcasing the beauty of our universe. Now, as we approach the end of the year, it’s time to look back at 2024’s best astrophotos that stood out among the rest.

A Collection To Celebrate Space’s Beauty Of 2024

This festive collection features awe-inspiring images like the dramatic Total Solar Eclipse in April, the spectacular Comet C/2024 S1 (ATLAS) streaking through the night sky, and the Perseids meteor shower illuminating the Milky Way. We also have stunning shots of the Perseids, the Comet 12/P Pons-Brooks, and the magical Northern Lights. Not to be missed are mesmerizing photos of the Moon framed by the Eiffel Tower and the Olympic Rings in Paris and the breathtaking conjunction of the Moon and Saturn.

Come along as we explore the most remarkable astronomy shots from 2024 that have truly shaped the world of astrophotography.

Rosette Nebula

The Rosette Nebula, a vast cloud of gas and dust in the Monoceros constellation, was among astrophotographers’ favourite space objects in 2024. This stunning image from our January collection showcases the breathtaking beauty of the nebula from an unusual point of view.

Total Solar Eclipse In April

One of the most memorable moments of 2024 was captured during the Total Solar Eclipse in April. In this stunning photo by Gary Hershorn, the eclipsed sun passes behind the iconic Statue of Liberty in New York City.

Milky Way & Northern Lights

This enchanting astrophoto from Devon, UK, is truly mesmerizing! The photographer beautifully captured the Milky Way stretching across the night sky above the Daymark, a striking landmark in the region. But the magic didn’t stop there – as if the Northern Lights made a surprise appearance on cue.

Comet C/2024 S1 (ATLAS)

Next on our list is the mesmerizing image of Comet C/2024 S1 (ATLAS), captured by Bray Falls/@astrofalls. This stunning shot showcases the vibrant, glowing tail of Comet ATLAS as it streaks across the dark Namibian sky.

The Cygnus Loop

In February, we were obsessed with Fred Herrmann’s astrophoto revealing the spectacle of the Cygnus Loop, a massive nebula in the Cygnus constellation.

Rho Ophiuchi Cloud Complex

This captivating image from our July collection showcases the vibrant hues and intricate structures of the Rho Ophiuchi cloud complex, one of the nearest and most dynamic star-forming regions.

Northern Lights From Space

One of the most mesmerizing astrophotography moments of 2024 came from NASA astronaut Matthew Dominick, currently aboard the International Space Station. From his vantage point over 270 miles above Earth, Dominick captured the stunning beauty of the Northern Lights in all their vibrant glory.

July’s Buck Full Moon And Plain

A breathtaking moment was captured during the Buck Full Moon in July 2024 as a plane gracefully soared across the sky, bathed in the glow of the illuminated moon.

Perseid Meteor Shower And Stonehenge

On 12 August 2024, NASA’s Astronomy Picture of the Day (APOD) featured a stunning photo by UK astrophotographer Josh Dury. This breathtaking composite image captures the Perseid meteor shower illuminating the iconic Stonehenge with “shooting stars” streaking across the night sky.

Comet 12/P Pons-Brooks

Comet 12/P Pons-Brooks became one of the most exciting celestial events of the year. Captured by Con Stoitsis, this image showcases the vibrant tail of the comet. The comet was bright enough to be seen with the naked eye from numerous dark-sky locations.

Moon, Eifel Tower, And Olympic Rings

One of the most unforgettable moments of 2024 was the stunning alignment of the July near-full Moon and the Olympic rings in Paris. On the night of July 21st, the Moon was perfectly positioned in the centre of one of the illuminated Olympic rings adorning the iconic Parisian landmark, a tribute to the upcoming Olympic Games. This shot is truly historic!

Meteor Over Mount Fuji

This captivating shot of a meteor streaking across the sky above Mount Fuji quickly became viral across social media. The breathtaking combination of natural beauty and cosmic wonder left viewers worldwide in awe.

Moon & Saturn Conjunction

On 14 October, the Moon passed close to Saturn in a stunning conjunction visible to the naked eye. This celestial alignment was especially captivating when viewed through a telescope, showcasing Saturn’s rings alongside the Moon in perfect harmony.

Volcanic Eruption And Aurora Borealis

In November, Iceland witnessed a major volcanic eruption, but nature had more to offer than just fiery skies. Astrophotographer Wioleta M. Gorecka captured a once-in-a-lifetime moment where the breathtaking Aurora Borealis perfectly complemented the volcanic eruption’s stunning glow.

Comet, Venus, And Milky Way

Thank you to all the photographers who have been sharing their amazing images for our 2024’s best astrophotos collections! We greatly appreciate your dedication and passion for astrophotography and wish you clear skies for your future captures in 2025.

Stay tuned as more amazing astrophotos are yet to come in the next year!