Mongolia NLCs

Last updated on September 16, 2023

Mongolia NLCs: A Captivating Display of Noctilucent Clouds

Noctilucent clouds (NLCs) are a mesmerizing atmospheric phenomenon that occurs at high latitudes during the summer months. These ethereal clouds, also known as polar mesospheric clouds, form at altitudes of around 80 kilometers (50 miles) in the Earth's mesosphere. Recently, an intriguing sighting of NLCs over Mongolia has captivated the attention of skywatchers and scientists alike.

Jonathan Shock, an avid photographer and sky enthusiast, captured the breathtaking beauty of these noctilucent clouds during a flight from Europe to Beijing. His images, taken on the 9th and 10th of July, reveal a stunning vista of NLCs extending towards the unusually southern region of the sky. The view, facing southwest with Jupiter near the horizon, showcases the awe-inspiring nature of this atmospheric phenomenon.

The formation of NLCs is a result of low temperatures near the mesopause, where temperatures can drop to as low as -120 degrees Celsius (-184 degrees Fahrenheit). These frigid conditions are essential for the creation of microscopic ice crystals that compose these luminous clouds. Paradoxically, these extreme low temperatures occur during the summer months when the sun is at its highest point in the sky.

While the exact mechanisms behind NLC formation are still not fully understood, scientists speculate that increasing concentrations of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the upper atmosphere may play a role in cooling the mesosphere. At lower altitudes, CO2 contributes to warming the Earth's surface by trapping heat. However, in the upper atmosphere, CO2 molecules radiate heat back into space, leading to cooling effects.

The sighting of NLCs over Mongolia highlights the significance of monitoring and studying these captivating clouds. By documenting their occurrence and observing their behavior, scientists can gain valuable insights into the complex interplay between atmospheric dynamics and climate change.

Here are some fascinating facts about NLCs and their occurrence:

• Noctilucent clouds are primarily observed in high-latitude regions, typically between 50 and 70 degrees north and south of the equator.
• They are most commonly seen during the summer months when the mesosphere is coldest and water vapor can freeze into ice crystals.
• NLCs exhibit a striking luminescence, glowing in electric blue or silver hues, especially when illuminated by the sun below the horizon.
• These clouds can be visible for several hours after sunset or before sunrise, appearing as thin, wavy, and delicate formations against the dark sky.
• NLCs are composed of ice crystals that are much smaller than those found in lower-altitude clouds. These tiny crystals scatter sunlight, creating their characteristic luminosity.
• Studying the occurrence and behavior of NLCs can provide valuable insights into the composition and dynamics of the upper atmosphere, as well as the effects of climate change on our planet.

In conclusion, the sighting of Noctilucent clouds over Mongolia offers a captivating glimpse into the mysterious beauty of these atmospheric phenomena. As scientists continue to unravel the intricacies of NLC formation and their relationship with climate change, each observation brings us closer to understanding the complex dynamics of our atmosphere. The mesmerizing images captured by Jonathan Shock serve as a reminder of the wonders that await us in the skies above.

Noctilucent Clouds over Mongolia captured 9/10th July by Jonathan Shock (more images) at about 4am local time on a flight from Europe to Beijing. The view is to the south-west and Jupiter is near the horizon. This is another sighting of the unusually southern extent of this summer's noctilucent clouds. Very low temperatures near the mesopause are needed to form their microscopic ice crystals and, paradoxically, these occur in summer. Increasing concentrations of CO2 could be cooling the upper atmosphere. At low altitude CO2 increases temperatures, higher up it cools by radiating heat into space. Image ©Jonathan Shock, shown with permission.

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