Image for article titled How to See Rare 'Night-Shining' Clouds, Thanks to Climate Change

The age of the noctilucent cloud is approaching. In the past, night-shining clouds were only seen in the north of the world. This could be the year you see them from your backyard because they have been creeping south for four decades.

Noctilucent clouds can be seen in the upper atmosphere, but they aren't usually visible unless atmospheric conditions are perfect. Global warming is making visible NLCs more common in more places, as they used to only be visible in the US in Alaska and the very northernmost parts of the lower 48. Oh yes, I'm happy?

What are noctilucent clouds?

Noctilucent clouds, or NLCs, were first observed in 1885 and are clouds of ice that form at the edge of space. In the summer, they appear as blue or white swirls only in the dark. NLCs can be seen between 50 and 60 degrees latitude, but recently they have been becoming brighter and moving as far south as Los Angeles.

Why are noctilucent clouds more visible now?

Most of the time, noctilucent clouds are invisible because the sky is too bright. The lower part of the atmosphere is shadowed by the earth in the middle of the night.

Changes in the atmosphere can change the weather. Bigger noctilucent clouds can be seen over a wider area of the planet because of global warming. More noctilucent clouds should be seen as the world warms up. Is it still a good thing?

How you can see noctilucent clouds this summer

When the sky is clear of clouds, night-shining clouds can be seen. You can see them by looking north at midnight. A horizon-wide northern vista is required for the best view. The view is great with the naked eye, but you might want a pair of binoculars to see the complexity of the clouds.

You can see a few glowing white or gold if you are lucky. If you're lucky, the clouds will grow and change color and stretch across the sky.

During the peak NLC season, which runs from June through July, the formations can't be predicted more than a few hours in advance. Sky-watching fans across the world are using technology to share NLC information and alert each other about the appearance of these elusive cloud formations.

Subscribe to these social media groups for advance news of noctilucent clouds

Fans of the phenomenon are happy to inform you that anyone who is to the east of you will be able to see the NLCs. You can join a similar group on Facebook or follow the Noctilucent Clouds Alerts on social media. I think all of these feeds are crazy when the night clouds show up. This summer is a good time to check out this phenomenon.

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