19 September 2014 | Art & Photography | By: M@

Earth and Space (and overall) winner) James Woodend (UK), with Aurora Over a Glacier Lagoon. A vivid green aurora is pictured above Icelands Vatnajokull National Park, reflected almost symmetrically in Jokulsarlon Glacier lagoon. A complete lack of wind and current combine in this sheltered scene to create an arresting mirror effect, giving the image a sensation of utter stillness. Despite this there is motion on a surprising scale, as the loops and arcs of the aurora are shaped by the shifting forces of the Earths magnetic field.

The annual prizes for best astronomy photography have been announced, and are now on display at the Royal Observatory, Greenwich. The show always attracts a broad range of images that appeal both to the eye and the mind. This years selection includes a stunning aurora-topped landscape (by overall winner James Woodend), a fresh look at the famous Horsehead Nebula, and the ripples in a pond of the suns surface. The best images, including our selection above, are on show at the Royal Observatory until 22 February. Astronomy Photographer Of The Year 2014is free to visit, although other parts of the observatory require an entrance fee.

Tags: astronomy, featured, greenwich, Photography, royal observatory greenwich

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Astronomy Photographer Of The Year 2014 Opens