2024 Milky Way Photography Brings the Most Dazzling Photos of Our Galaxy—Every Image Has a Story to Tell

It’s peak Milky Way season and all over the world astrophotographers are clamoring to capture magical shots of our galaxy. Every year in late May, travel photography blog Capture the Atlas releases its collection of the 25 best new photos of the Milky Way. In 2024, the seventh edition of the compilation features mesmerizing images taken in far-flung locations in 15 countries. Each photograph on the list, selected from more than 5,000 overall entries, has its own unique story. Viewing the Milky Way with maximum clarity requires a dark sky free from light pollution. All 25 photographers—representing 19 different nationalities—undertook special trips to achieve their shots; many braving cold temperatures at high altitudes and some even camping out for days. One thing each has in common, regardless of the place they traveled to, is the profoundly unforgettable experience they had witnessing the beauty of the Milky Way....