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Noctilucent cloud
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Noctilucent cloud
Noctilucent cloud over trees. This type of cloud, also known as polar mesospheric, is visible only in deep twilight and is seen mostly during the summer. It is the highest cloud type in the Earths atmosphere and occurs only when sunlight illuminates it from below the horizon, while the ground and lower layers of the atmosphere are in the Earths shadow. Photographed in Turku, Finland, in July
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Media ID 6311607
© PEKKA PARVIAINEN/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
2006 Atmosphere Atmospheric Phenomena Blue Calm Calming Climate Cloud Cloud Formations Cloud Types Clouds Colour Colourful Colours Dark Darkness Evening Finland Finnish Forest Forms Glow High Altitude July Light Meteorological Meteorology Natural Night Night Time Noctilucent Cloud Peaceful Phenomenon Pine Polar Polar Mesospheric Cloud Polar Mesospheric Clouds Quiet Reflected Seasons Sun Set Turku Twilight Weather Wood Wood Land
EDITORS COMMENTS
This mesmerizing print captures the ethereal beauty of a Noctilucent cloud gracefully hovering over a serene forest in Turku, Finland. As the sun sets and darkness envelops the landscape, these rare polar mesospheric clouds come to life, casting an enchanting glow against the deep blue sky. Visible only during deep twilight and predominantly seen in summer, these high-altitude cloud formations are a captivating phenomenon. The tranquil atmosphere of this Finnish wood is enhanced by the peacefulness and calmness that emanates from this natural spectacle. The vibrant colors reflected in the photograph evoke a sense of tranquility and serenity, as if nature itself has paused to admire its own creation. In this moment captured back in July 2006, we witness how sunlight illuminates these elusive clouds from below the horizon while the ground and lower layers of Earth's atmosphere remain shrouded in darkness. This unique interplay between light and shadow creates an otherworldly display that leaves observers awe-struck. As we gaze upon this extraordinary image, we are reminded of our planet's remarkable geographical diversity and atmospheric wonders. It serves as a reminder that even within our everyday surroundings lie hidden marvels waiting to be discovered – like these noctilucent clouds dancing above us on those warm summer nights.
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