Strange ‘Space Clouds’ Seen Glowing Across Northern Hemisphere
Noctilucent clouds, or 'night-shining clouds,' are currently visible across the Northern Hemisphere due to peak summer conditions in the mesosphere. These rare, electric-blue displays are formed by ice crystals freezing onto meteor dust at the edge of space.
Why it matters
These atmospheric phenomena provide scientists with data on the upper atmosphere and serve as a notable celestial event for skywatchers.
Science Strange ‘Space Clouds’ Seen Glowing Across Northern Hemisphere By Jamie Carter ,
Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. An award-winning reporter writing about stargazing and the night sky. Follow Author Jul 20, 2026, 04:15am EDT Summary Skywatchers across northern Europe are reporting spectacular noctilucent cloud displays, with brilliant electric-blue formations illuminating the late-night sky. These "night-shining clouds" are Earth's highest, forming 47-52 miles up in the mesosphere. They consist of tiny ice crystals that freeze onto microscopic meteor dust particles at extreme cold, glowing because they remain sunlit long after ground-level darkness. NLCs are a summer phenomenon, peaking in June and July, as water vapor rises into the mesosphere. Best viewed 60-90 minutes after sunset or before sunrise, looking north. Observers in northern Europe, Canada, Alaska, and parts of the northern U.S. are in prime viewing zones for these delicate, rippling bands.
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