The Central West Astronomical Society (CWAS) is proud to announce the shortlisted finalists in the 2016 CWAS Astrophotography Awards – the ‘David Malin Awards’. Astrophotography is taking a photo of an object in space, from the Milky Way to the Moon and will be featured during the CWAS AstroFest held in Parkes this weekend.
The 2016 winners will be announced and presented with their awards at the 2016 CWAS AstroFest Conference Dinner tomorrow. Congratulations to the 28 finalists for their mesmerising contributions. To view the shortlisted finalists’ pictures view them online www.cwas.org.au or visit the exhibition at the CSIRO Parkes Observatory’s Visitors Centre from 17th July.
This year’s competition had eight categories: Deep Sky, Wide-Field, Solar System, Nightscapes, Animated Sequences (Scientific and Aesthetic), Themed Section ‘Light Pollution: The Bad and the Beautiful’, and a junior section (18 years old or younger). The entries were judged by world renowned astrophotographer and award namesake, Dr David Malin. The judging process accessed not only the technical skill, but the ability to capture the beauty of the sky and the intrinsic interest of astronomy.
“This year’s pictures maintained the high standards we have come to expect from the Australian community,” said Dr David Malin. “There are some splendid examples of modern astrophotography among the finalists.” Canon Australia continues to support the astrophotography competition with E-store Voucher prizes to the value of over $10,000. “These awards showcase the extraordinary beauty of our night sky and wonderful night time landscapes,” said Alan Brightman, General Manager of SUNSTUDIOS, Canon Australia; “With patience, commitment and good equipment, these photographers capture breath-taking images.”
The astrophotography competition finalists will be exhibited at the CSIRO Parkes Observatory’s Visitors Centre from 17th July for 12 months. For more information about the 2016 CWAS AstroFest, visit www.cwas.org.au/astrofest/