Enter the 2022/2023 Astrophotography Competition
The 2022/23 South Downs Astrophotography competition is now open!
There are two categories available to enter:
- South Downs Dark Skyscapes – an image that captures the star-studded Dark Skies of the South Downs National Park.
- Nature At Night – any shot that captures living things in the South Downs National Park at night. This could include wildlife, people, trees or plants!
Please note all images submitted must be taken within the South Downs National Park.
The first prize for each category will be £100 followed by a runner-up prize of £75.
Those new to astrophotography should check out our top tips on photographing our night skies and visit one of our top 10 sites for stargazing in the South Downs.
Judging the contest will be “Dark Skies” Dan Oakley, a Lead Ranger for the National Park, Steve Broadbent, Chairman of Hampshire Astronomical Group, and Vanessa Rowlands, chair of the South Downs National Park Authority.
Images submitted for the competition will be shared by the National Park Authority on social media during the annual Dark Skies Festival, which will take places from Saturday 4 February until Friday 17 February 2023.
The festival celebrates the National Park’s International Dark Sky Reserve status, which was awarded in 2016 and recognises the South Downs as one of the 20 best places in the world to view the moon and stars.
Entries close at midnight on Wednesday 11 January 2023.
Download an entry form here to take part:
All entry forms and images should be emailed to photo@southdowns.gov.uk
Our terms and conditions can be read here.
Good luck everyone!