Photo credit: Nicolas Lefaudeux/Astronomy Photographer of the Year 2020
Nicolas Lefaudeux won the 2020 Astronomy Photographer of the Year with this tilt-shift photo of the Andromeda Galaxy. Titled “Andromeda Galaxy at Arm’s Length,” the 3D effect was created by 3D-printing a part to hold the camera at an angle at the focus of the telescope. The bokeh (blur) created by the defocus at the edges of the sensor gives viewers the illusion of being close to the stars. Read more for a video and additional information.
For those interested in the gear, the photographer used a Sky-Watcher Black Diamond 100 mm apochromatic refractor telescope at f/9, iOptron iEQ30 mount, a modified Sony a7S camera set at ISO 2000, for 2 hours 30 minutes total exposure. Nicolas will receive $12,800 for submitting the winning photograph.
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To most of us, our closest neighboring galaxy Andromeda can also feel so distanced and out of reach. Yet to create a photograph that gives us the impression that it is just within our physical reach is truly magical, and somewhat appropriate as we adjust after such socially distanced times,” said Ed Robinson, one of the contest judges.