A Darlington-based astro photographer has unveiled a stunning capture of a galaxy millions of light years away from Earth.

23-year-old Adam Rissetto says he has been trying to get a picture of the Triangulum Galaxy - a spiral galaxy 2.73 million light-years from Earth "for a long time" and has finally completed his mission. 

Adam, who last year graduated from Teesside University with a degree in photography, usually heads to a secluded spot named Summerhouse on the outskirts of Darlington for maximum darkness.

Adam Rissetto, 23.Adam Rissetto, 23. (Image: ADAM RISSETTO) After waiting for hours for the sky to clear on November 11, he was finally able to get his chance to see the Triangulum Galaxy, which was discovered in 1654, at 10pm.

He said: "I did have a passion for photography before I went to university - and started by doing both Astrophotography as well as wildlife.

"I don't get pictures like this very often as we usually have terrible weather! I was still happy with this and went on to post it as a work in progress."

Adam's picture of the Triangulum Galaxy.Adam's picture of the Triangulum Galaxy. (Image: ADAM RISSETTO) Adam went on to explain how getting pictures like this really works - as it's not as simple as just pointing the camera up and getting the perfect shot.

Using a hoard of equipment including an equatorial mount to track the subject, pictures are taken over a matter of hours and are then collated together to make the final product.

This time, the Triangulum Galaxy shot was taken after just an hour of tracking as the cloud meant he was unable to get a clear view for long.

Another picture taken by Adam - this time of the North America Nebula.Another picture taken by Adam - this time of the North America Nebula. (Image: ADAM RISSETTO)

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However, despite Adam saying it is "not his best" - he received a load of praise and good feedback when he posted it on social media not long after.

He added: "It's awesome to get such nice comments, I never expect any praise as I just enjoy sharing my work.

"I never see anyone else doing what I do - so it's quite nice to be one of the only ones."