What Would Be The Optimal Time Frame For Observing Noctilucent Clouds In The Northern Hemisphere That Are Illuminated By The Moon And Simultaneously Influenced By The Solar Winds From A Coronal Mass Ejection, Considering The Current 11-year Solar Cycle And The Typical Atmospheric Conditions Of The Mesosphere During The Summer Months?
The optimal time frame for observing noctilucent clouds (NLCs) in the Northern Hemisphere, considering illumination by the Moon and influence from solar winds due to a coronal mass ejection (CME), is as follows:
-
Seasonal Timing: The ideal period is during the summer months, particularly in June and July. This is when the mesosphere is at its coldest, facilitating the formation of NLCs.
-
Solar Cycle Consideration: The current 11-year solar cycle (Solar Cycle 25) is expected to peak around 2025. This solar maximum will likely increase the frequency and intensity of CMEs, enhancing the potential for solar winds to influence NLCs.
-
Lunar Phase: Observing around the full moon or gibbous phases is beneficial, as the bright Moon illuminates the clouds, making them more visible. The full moon in June or July is particularly advantageous.
-
CME Impact Timing: CMEs take about 1-5 days to reach Earth. If a CME impacts Earth during the summer solstice, it could create geomagnetic disturbances that enhance NLC formation or visibility.
Conclusion: The optimal time for observing NLCs is in early summer (June-July) around the full moon, especially during heightened solar activity near the solar maximum (around 2025) and following a CME impact. This combination of cold mesospheric conditions, lunar illumination, and solar influence maximizes the chances of observing these phenomena.