Spectacular 'rainbow clouds' over Arctic light up northen Europe (photos)
Nacreous clouds grace the skies of northern Europe last week (photo: Space.com)
Starting from December 17, polar stratospheric clouds have been observed in the sky above polar regions, reports Space.com.
This phenomenon, known as polar stratospheric clouds, could be seen by residents of Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Alaska. On December 22, these clouds were also documented in Italy and Switzerland.
Ramune Sapailaite at Gran in southern Norway captured these extraordinary moments, creating several vivid images. The photos show the rainbow colors of the clouds and the shimmering effect that gives the phenomenon its name - nacreous clouds.
The photographer noted that the colors were visible throughout the day but became particularly vibrant closer to sunset.
Nacreous clouds are ice clouds that reflect and scatter sunlight, creating a rainbow-like effect visible from the Earth.
The phenomenon was spotted across various locations in Northern Europe (Photos: Space.com)
These clouds form at an altitude of 15 to 25 kilometers above the Earth's surface and occur at very low temperatures, below -85 degrees Celsius. Therefore, such clouds can only be seen in the winter period in polar regions.
Although the typical "season" for nacreous clouds usually begins in January, they appeared earlier this winter. Experts speculate that this remarkable phenomenon may be observed in various countries for several more weeks.
Despite their colorful nature, nacreous clouds also have a darker side. They play a significant role in the depletion of the ozone layer over the Arctic.
Earlier we reported that the United States had expanded its control over the continental shelf in the Arctic.
