riskkymät

Rysskymät is a Finnish term that translates to "Russian visibility" or "Russian twilight." It refers to a specific atmospheric phenomenon that occurs in the northern latitudes, particularly during the winter months. This phenomenon is characterized by a prolonged period of twilight that can last for several hours after sunset and before sunrise.

The extended twilight is caused by the angle of the sun relative to the horizon. In higher latitudes, during winter, the sun remains below the horizon for a significant portion of the day. However, its rays can still illuminate the upper atmosphere, scattering light and creating a diffuse glow. This scattered light is what causes the prolonged period of twilight, often referred to as rysskymät.

The intensity and duration of rysskymät can vary depending on factors such as atmospheric conditions, cloud cover, and the specific latitude. On clear days, the twilight can be quite pronounced, painting the sky with shades of pink, orange, and purple. This phenomenon is a familiar sight for those living in arctic and subarctic regions and is often associated with the unique beauty of winter landscapes in these areas. While the term "rysskymät" specifically denotes this extended twilight, it is a natural atmospheric event not exclusive to any particular nationality.