Skyreflecting

Skyreflecting refers to the phenomenon where sunlight or artificial light is reflected off the undersides of clouds, creating a bright, often dazzling effect on the ground below. This optical illusion occurs when light rays strike the bottom of a cloud layer, such as altocumulus, cirrocumulus, or stratus clouds, and are scattered back toward the observer. The result can resemble a shimmering, luminous surface, sometimes mistaken for a mirage or an unusual weather condition.

The effect is most noticeable on clear days when the sun is positioned at a low angle, such as during dawn or dusk. Skyreflecting can also occur under artificial lighting, particularly in urban areas where streetlights or floodlights illuminate cloud bases from below. This creates a similar glowing effect, often visible at night.

Unlike mirages, which distort distant objects due to atmospheric refraction, skyreflecting is purely a result of light reflection. The intensity of the phenomenon depends on cloud thickness, composition, and the angle of incoming light. While not a well-documented meteorological term, skyreflecting has been observed in various regions and is sometimes discussed in photography and atmospheric optics communities.

Photographers often seek out skyreflecting for its dramatic visual impact, capturing the interplay between light and clouds. The effect can also be mistaken for auroras or other luminous phenomena, though it lacks the characteristic colors and dynamic movement associated with those natural displays. Understanding skyreflecting helps distinguish it from other optical effects, ensuring accurate interpretation of atmospheric observations.