Louth Stargazers and Photographers Encouraged to Enter National Astrophotography Contest

Louth | Arts, Science & Photography

The Dublin Institute for Advanced Studies (DIAS) has officially issued a call to photographers across County Louth to submit their most celestial captures for the 2026 ‘Reach for the Stars’ competition.

Now in its sixth year, the competition seeks to find the most breathtaking images of the night sky taken from the island of Ireland. From amateur enthusiasts with smartphones to seasoned professionals with high-powered telescopes, the contest is open to all skill levels, celebrating both the beauty of the cosmos and the technical skill required to capture it.

Categories and Creativity

This year’s competition features several distinct categories, ensuring that various styles of astrophotography are represented:

Out of this World: Focusing on “Deep Sky” objects such as distant nebulae, star clusters, and galaxies.
Back on Earth: Showcasing the night sky in the context of the Irish landscape, perfect for shots featuring local landmarks like Carlingford Lough or Oldbridge House.
Planetary: Dedicated to high-detail captures of the moon and our neighboring planets within the solar system.
The Night Sky in Your Garden: A category specifically designed for those capturing celestial events from their own doorsteps, highlighting accessibility in the hobby.

“Astrophotography blends the precision of science with the boundless creativity of art. We want to see how the people of Louth view our place in the universe.”

Judging and Recognition

Entries will be judged by a panel of experts including prominent astronomers and professional photographers. In addition to the category winners, a “Public Choice” award will allow the community to vote for their favorite image online later this summer.

Winning images will not only receive high-profile equipment prizes but will also be featured in a special DIAS exhibition and potentially used in national scientific publications.

How to Enter

Louth residents can submit their entries via the official DIAS competition portal. Here are the key details to keep in mind:

Deadline: All entries must be uploaded by 5:00 PM on Friday, May 22nd, 2026.
Location: Images must have been taken on the island of Ireland.
Requirements: Participants must provide a brief description of the technical setup used and the location of the shot.

For full terms and conditions and to upload your captures, visit www.dias.ie/reachforthestars.

Whether it’s a shimmering Aurora or the quiet glow of the moon over the Boyne, don’t miss your chance to reach for the stars.