Astronomy Picture of the Day · October 13, 2026

Desert Stairway to Heaven

The Astronomy Picture of the Day for October 13, 2026 is “Desert Stairway to Heaven,” an image. The picture is copyrighted by its creator (Julien Looten). The original explanation runs about 148 words.

The Milky Way galaxy rises from the horizon and curves upward in the sky. In the foreground, a rock pathway is seen that culminates in a staircase that ends abruptly. The Milky Way band appears to be a continuation of the staircase. Please — Credit & Copyright: Julien Looten Copyrighted Shown from science.nasa.gov. Not hosted by OpenOrbit.

From the explanation

“This stairway in Chile brings you only a little bit closer to heaven. But ooh, the sky above it makes you wonder.”

— APOD editors, October 13, 2026

Read the full explanation on science.nasa.gov

At a glance

Date: October 13, 2026
Type: Image
Credit: Credit & Copyright: Julien Looten
Copyright: Copyrighted by the credited creator. Ask the copyright holder before reusing it.
Explanation length: About 148 words