NASA’s Terra satellite recently captured a stunning image of ring-shaped clouds over the Gulf of Mexico, sparking curiosity and confusion among onlookers. These unique clouds, known as cavum clouds, have been a source of mystery since they were first documented in the 1940s. Often mistaken for aliens or other odd phenomena, these clouds are actually a natural occurrence that occurs when airplanes fly through midlevel altocumulus clouds, leaving behind large cavum shapes.
Officially called cavum clouds, these formations are also known as hole-punch clouds or fallstreak holes. The explanation for these clouds was only discovered about 15 years ago, and it was found that any type of plane can produce cavum clouds. The recent photo captured by NASA’s Terra satellite shows a “cluster” of cavum clouds near Florida on January 30.
It is estimated that over 1,000 flights per day from Miami International Airport contribute to the phenomenon of cavum clouds in the region. The Terra satellite, which studies Earth’s atmosphere, effects of climate change, and maps human activity and natural disasters, provides valuable insights into these unique cloud formations.
While cavum clouds may be a common occurrence in the Gulf of Mexico, their striking appearance and mysterious nature continue to captivate observers. As technology advances and satellites like Terra provide more detailed images of our planet, we are able to gain a better understanding of the natural phenomena that occur in our atmosphere.
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