Our Moon 2026

Composite image of left limb of the Moon with Venus moving increasingly behind it

Category winner

Venusian Pearl on the Moon by Petr Horalek

Petr says, "On 19 September 2025, a rare lunar occultation of Venus occurred as the Moon passed in front of the planet in the daytime sky. Venus disappeared behind the crescent Moon at 2.14 p.m. and reappeared just over an hour later. It was a big challenge to find both objects in the sky and produce good shots of this unusual view. Fortunately, the weather was perfect and I was able to do it. The most beautiful moment was when Venus had just started to disappear behind the crescent. It looked like a bright pearl on the lunar limb."

Taken in Ústupky, Seč, Pardubice Region, Czechia

Close up of the Moon's surface with a big central crater surrounded by a mountainous region

Runner-up

Plato and Vallis Alpes by Raul Cantemir

"This exceptionally detailed colour image of the Moon features the prominent crater Plato, which spans approximately 101 km (63 miles) in diameter. Its dark, smooth floor is covered in solidified basalt – a remnant of ancient volcanic activity. Several smaller impact craters can be seen within it, the largest of which measures more than 2 km (1.2 miles) across," says Raul.

"Along the eastern edge of the image, part of the striking Vallis Alpes (Alpine Valley) is visible. The narrow central rille (or trench) which cuts through the valley floor is particularly eye-catching. In this image, portions of it stand out clearly. The colour processing not only enhances visual appeal but also helps reveal subtle differences in the composition of the Moon’s surface, offering a glimpse into its complex geological history and mineral diversity."

Taken in Darmstadt, Hesse, Germany, 13 August 2025

Close up of the curved limb of the Moon, with craters, valleys and alps on the lunar surface rendered in detail

Highly commended

Pythagoras Crater by Tom Williams

Tom explains, "This image shows a close-up view of the Moon’s north-western limb, featuring Pythagoras Crater and its periphery. A favourable lunar phase meant that the central mountainous rise within the main crater is clearly visible. This double peak ascends to 3 km (1.9 miles) above the surrounding terrain."

Taken in Trowbridge, Wiltshire, England, 15 August 2025