Brisbane astronomy enthusiasts are proving that spectacular views of the night sky are still possible from within a major Australian city, despite the challenges created by urban light pollution.

Astrophotographers and amateur astronomers say modern technology has made it increasingly practical for people living in Brisbane to observe and photograph celestial objects from their own backyards. While artificial light can make faint stars and deep-space objects more difficult to see, brighter objects such as the Moon, planets, the Southern Cross and some meteor showers can still be observed from the city.

Brisbane resident Sudath Wijeratne began astrophotography about five years ago with a simple telescope and camera. What started as an effort to photograph the Moon eventually developed into a much more advanced hobby, including a small observatory at his home and equipment capable of capturing distant astronomical objects.

His photographs now include nebulae and galaxies located millions of light-years away. Long-exposure photography allows cameras to collect more light than the human eye can see, revealing details that are difficult or impossible to observe directly from a brightly lit urban environment.

The Southern Pinwheel Galaxy, for example, is approximately 15 million light-years from Earth. Images of distant galaxies and nebulae can be produced by combining multiple exposures, allowing astrophotographers to reveal faint structures hidden within the night sky.

The growth of smart telescopes is also making the hobby more accessible. Unlike traditional telescope setups that can require separate cameras, computers and other equipment, smart telescopes combine several functions into one system and can be controlled through a smartphone or tablet.

Users can select a celestial object through an app, after which the telescope can automatically locate it and capture a series of images. The images can then be combined to produce a clearer picture of the object.

Damian Fletcher, president of the South East Queensland Astronomical Society, said people are often surprised by how much can be seen even from parts of Brisbane affected by light pollution. The organisation runs public telescope nights where people can observe celestial objects without having to purchase their own equipment.

Astrophysicist Dr Michael Cowley from Queensland University of Technology also said smart telescopes were allowing students to obtain useful astronomical images from urban environments. This technology can make astronomy more accessible while also providing opportunities for educational and research activities.

Although professional-grade astronomy equipment can cost thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars, experienced Brisbane stargazers say beginners do not need expensive equipment to start.

Simply finding a comfortable location away from direct lights and spending time looking at the night sky can provide an introduction to astronomy. Community telescope events can then give beginners the opportunity to try more advanced equipment before deciding whether they want to invest in their own.

The Brisbane experience demonstrates that city living does not completely prevent people from connecting with the night sky. With careful observation and modern imaging technology, amateur astronomers can continue discovering planets, stars, nebulae and galaxies from Australia's urban centres.