A Retreating Thunderstorm at Sunset

Astronomy Picture of the Day · 2022-01-16 · NASA (public domain)

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A Retreating Thunderstorm at Sunset — APOD for 2022-01-16

What type of cloud is that? This retreating cumulonimbus cloud , more commonly called a thundercloud, is somewhat unusual as it contains the unusual bumpiness of a mammatus cloud on the near end, while simultaneously producing falling rain on the far end. Taken in mid-2013 in southern Alberta , Canada , the cloud is moving to the east, into the distance, as the sun sets in the west, behind the camera. In the featured image , graphic sunset colors cross the sky to give the already photogenic cloud striking orange and pink hues. A darkening blue sky covers the background. Further in the distance, a rising , waxing , gibbous moon is visible on the far right.

Astronomy Picture of the Day for 2022-01-16 — image & explanation courtesy of NASA (public domain), mirrored at Tukuk-OS for reading and search convenience.

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