Astronomy Picture of the Day (APOD)
Discover the cosmos! Each day a different image or photograph of our fascinating universe is featured, along with a brief explanation written by a professional astronomer.
Team Mission
Developed by NASA astronomers, the Astronomy Picture of the Day (APOD) features the largest online collection of annotated astronomical images. Since 1995, APOD has shared a new image each day—often visually striking or timely—along with a concise explanation written by professional astronomers. These explanations aim to provide accessible insight into the science, context, and stories behind each image.
APOD strives to spark curiosity about the universe and make complex astronomical concepts approachable to a broad audience. Over the years, it has evolved into a vibrant, global community where enthusiasts, students, and professionals alike explore the cosmos and contribute their own astrophotography. Through this shared experience, APOD offers a moment of discovery and wonder—every single day.
What We Hope to Achieve
APOD aims to ignite curiosity about the universe by presenting compelling astronomical imagery accompanied by thoughtful, scientifically grounded commentary. Through these daily posts, we seek to make the wonders of space accessible and engaging to audiences of all backgrounds—bridging the gap between professional scientists and the public.
APOD plays a vital role in global science outreach, promoting broader understanding and appreciation of astronomy across cultures and continents. With daily translations into more than 20 languages and a worldwide audience of millions, APOD has become a trusted source of inspiration and discovery for learners, educators, and enthusiasts alike.
We also recognize the powerful role of astrophotography in science communication. By highlighting and supporting the work of both amateur and professional astrophotographers, APOD helps grow a creative and vibrant global community that brings the universe closer—one image at a time.
