NASA’s Curiosity Rover Captures Rare Iridescent Clouds in Martian Atmosphere

The twilight clouds, composed of carbon dioxide ice, reveal stunning colors and offer insights into Mars' atmospheric dynamics.

NASA's Curiosity Rover recorded a 16-minute video on January 17, 2025, showing rare noctilucent clouds in Mars' atmosphere during sunset.
These clouds, also known as twilight clouds, form from carbon dioxide ice at altitudes of 37-50 miles and are visible only under specific conditions.
The iridescent, or 'mother-of-pearl,' effect occurs due to uniform particle sizes in the clouds, creating vivid colors like red, green, and purple.
Scientists believe Martian gravity waves, which cool the atmosphere, may play a role in the formation of these clouds in specific regions of the planet.
Curiosity's findings contribute to understanding Mars' atmospheric composition, cloud formation processes, and seasonal weather patterns.