The annual Astronomy Photographer of the Year show in Greenwich is one exhibition we never miss. Not only are the images always striking and beautiful, they also embody a dizzying idea: these distant star clusters, galaxies and dust clouds are as real as the ground we stand on, but forever beyond our reach.
This year's exhibition at the Royal Observatory offers the usual mix of the unusual, from needle galaxies to a nebula shaped like Pacman. Some of the best photos capture objects and phenomenon closer to home. Dancing aurorae and long-exposure moon shots are every bit as alluring as the glimpses of the distant cosmos. We've chosen a few highlights below.
Insight Astronomy Photographer of the Year 2017 is on show at the Royal Observatory Greenwich until 22 July 2018. Entrance to the exhibition is free.