Moonset and Earth Shadow, 25-30,000ft

Last updated on September 16, 2023

Moonset and Earth Shadow, 25-30,000ft: A Captivating Sight from Above

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to witness the moon setting from a high altitude? Picture yourself aboard a plane, slowly descending towards London in the pre-dawn hours. As you peer out the window at an altitude of 25-30,000ft, an almost full moon catches your eye. But something else captures your attention—a stunning display of atmospheric optics known as the Earth Shadow and the pink-hued anti-twilight arch, also known as the Belt of Venus.

The Earth Shadow, a dark blue band, stretches across the horizon. This shadow is cast by our planet itself, as it blocks the sun's rays from reaching the atmosphere below. As a result, the sky above the shadow appears brighter than the sky within it. It creates a stark contrast against the slowly fading light of the rising sun.

Above the Earth Shadow, you'll notice a breathtaking pink glow known as the Belt of Venus. This phenomenon occurs during twilight, when the sun is below the horizon but still illuminates the upper atmosphere. The pink coloration is caused by the scattering of sunlight by tiny particles in the atmosphere, such as dust and water droplets.

As you continue your descent towards London, the moon sinks lower in the sky, gradually disappearing into the Earth Shadow. The interplay between light and shadow creates a mesmerizing scene that captivates both amateur and professional photographers alike. It's a unique perspective that allows us to appreciate the beauty and complexity of our planet's atmosphere.

The Earth Shadow and Belt of Venus are not limited to high altitudes or specific locations. They can be observed from various vantage points around the world, provided the atmospheric conditions are favorable. However, witnessing these phenomena from an airplane adds an extra layer of awe-inspiring wonder.

When photographing the Moonset and Earth Shadow from a plane, timing is crucial. The ideal moment occurs when the moon is still relatively high in the sky, allowing it to cast a well-defined shadow. The contrast between the moon's brightness and the dark Earth Shadow enhances the visual impact of the scene.

It's important to note that the Earth Shadow and Belt of Venus are not exclusive to moonsets. They can also be observed during sunrise and sunset, albeit with some variations in appearance. The interplay of light and shadow creates ever-changing hues and atmospheric conditions, making each experience unique.

In conclusion, witnessing a moonset from a high altitude offers a captivating display of atmospheric optics. The Earth Shadow and Belt of Venus provide a stunning visual spectacle that showcases the intricate interplay between light and shadow in our atmosphere. Whether you're a professional photographer or simply an admirer of nature's wonders, this unique perspective is bound to leave you in awe. So, the next time you find yourself aboard a plane during the pre-dawn hours, don't forget to glance out the window and witness the beauty of a moonset and the accompanying Earth Shadow and Belt of Venus.

An almost full moon sets in the dark blue shadow of the earth and pink anti-twilight arch (Belt of Venus).

Taken at 25-30,000ft on a slow eastwards pre-dawn descent into London, England 03:58UT 1st July 2007.

Image ©Les Cowley

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Reference Atmospheric Optics

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