Twilit

Twilit refers to the period of time after sunset or before sunrise when the sun is below the horizon but its light is still visible. This phenomenon is caused by the scattering of sunlight by the Earth's atmosphere. During twilight, the sky is not completely dark but displays a range of colors, from deep blues and purples to oranges and reds, depending on atmospheric conditions and the position of the sun.

There are generally three recognized phases of twilight: civil, nautical, and astronomical. Civil twilight is the brightest phase, occurring when the sun is between the horizon and six degrees below it. This period is characterized by sufficient light for most outdoor activities without artificial illumination. Nautical twilight begins when the sun is six degrees below the horizon and ends when it is twelve degrees below. During this phase, the horizon is still visible, allowing for navigation by skilled observers using celestial bodies. Astronomical twilight is the darkest phase, lasting from when the sun is twelve degrees below the horizon until it reaches eighteen degrees. At this point, the sky is nearly completely dark, and the faint light from celestial objects becomes the primary source of illumination.

The duration of twilight varies depending on geographical location, time of year, and latitude. Near the equator, twilight periods are relatively short, while at higher latitudes, especially during summer months, twilight can last for extended periods, sometimes resulting in nights that are never fully dark.