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What is Zodiacal Light

Horace He

Last Updated: December 26, 2023

What is Zodiacal Light

Zodiacal light is a celestial phenomenon characterized by a faint band of light that can be observed in the night sky. This band of light is believed to result from sunlight reflecting off cometary dust particles that are concentrated in the plane of the zodiac, also known as the ecliptic. The zodiacal light is most easily visible in the tropics, where the ecliptic is nearly vertical, and it can be seen in the western sky after twilight and in the eastern sky before dawn.

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The zodiacal light can be traced along the path of the ecliptic, extending from a point approximately 30° away from the Sun to about 90°. Interestingly, measurements have shown that the band of zodiacal light continues beyond this range, reaching the region opposite the Sun. In this region, a faint enhancement known as the gegenschein, or counterglow, can be observed. This suggests that there is some level of zodiacal light present throughout the entire sky, and it can be considered an extension of the F-corona of the Sun.

Zodiacal light is not limited to a specific time of the year but can be observed throughout different seasons. In mid-northern latitudes, it is best observed in the evening during February and March and in the morning during September and October. By studying and understanding the characteristics of zodiacal light, scientists gain insights into the distribution and behavior of cometary dust within our solar system.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Zodiacal Light and What Is Its Source

Zodiacal light is a luminous band that appears in the night sky. It is believed to originate from sunlight reflecting off cometary dust that is concentrated in the plane of the zodiac, also known as the ecliptic. This phenomenon can be observed in the west after twilight and in the east before dawn, and it is particularly prominent in tropical regions where the ecliptic is nearly vertical.

What Causes the Zodiacal Light

Known as zodiacal light, this phenomenon occurs when sunlight reflects off dust particles in the inner solar system. The origin of these dust particles remains a mystery, although it has been widely believed that comets and asteroids are responsible for delivering them. However, Jorgensen et al. have recently conducted research on this topic.

What Does Zodiacal Light Look Like

The appearance of zodiacal light can be described as a hazy pyramid. It becomes visible in the sky shortly before the break of dawn or the onset of darkness. In terms of brightness, it is similar to the Milky Way, but it has a more milky and opaque appearance. Unlike the colors seen during sunrise or sunset, the zodiacal light does not exhibit any rosy hues.

When Can You See the Zodiacal Light

The zodiacal light is most visible during the evening sky in February and March when the moon is waning and rises after midnight. To observe it clearly, you need to be in a completely dark location without any light pollution.

Is Zodiacal Light Rare

Zodiacal light is not commonly seen and can be observed during the spring and fall equinox at higher latitudes, as well as throughout the year in tropical regions.

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