{%recommended 5016%}Storm chaser Mike Olbinski caught this unbelievable sunset full of the rare asperitas (also known as undulatus asperatus) cloud formation on the plains of North Dakota.
While cloud-watchers have been talking about asperitas clouds for years, it was only in March that the World Meteorological Organization gave them an official entry in the International Cloud Atlas. The WMO describes the clouds as “well-defined wave-like structures in the underside of the cloud; more chaotic and with less horizontal organisation than the variety Undulatus”.
Originally published by Cosmos as Hypnotic asperitas cloud sunset
Cosmos
Curated content from the editorial staff at Cosmos Magazine.
Read science facts, not fiction...
There’s never been a more important time to explain the facts, cherish evidence-based knowledge and to showcase the latest scientific, technological and engineering breakthroughs. Cosmos is published by The Royal Institution of Australia, a charity dedicated to connecting people with the world of science. Financial contributions, however big or small, help us provide access to trusted science information at a time when the world needs it most. Please support us by making a donation or purchasing a subscription today.
