Atmosfereja

Atmosfereja is a term used in speculative meteorology to describe a proposed class of upper-atmosphere optical phenomena characterized by elongated, filamentary structures that can appear as glows, ribbons, or sheets in the lower stratosphere and upper troposphere. The concept envisions relatively stable, stratified layers where light interacts with unusual distributions of aerosols and ions, producing distinctive patterns that persist for minutes to hours.

Typical descriptions note long, threadlike filaments or networked sheets, often illuminated by twilight and showing iridescent colors. Observers report that features can drift with ambient winds and may align with prevailing atmospheric gravity waves or jet-stream structures. Documentation is limited and largely anecdotal, with some images and satellite footage offered by researchers and enthusiasts.

Possible mechanisms proposed include scattering and luminescence from ionized aerosol particles, refraction within ice crystals in high-altitude clouds, and coupling to atmospheric electric fields. Some hypotheses emphasize the role of layered humidity, temperature inversions, and low turbulence, which could favor the formation and persistence of coherent optical structures.

Current status: atmosfereja remains a speculative concept without broad consensus or official recognition in meteorology. It serves as a case study in how upper-atmosphere optics can arise from complex interactions between radiation, particles, and dynamic air masses. Ongoing observations using ground-based cameras, lidars, and satellites aim to establish criteria for detection and classification.

See also: noctilucent clouds, airglow, atmospheric optics, aurora.