What is Zodiacal Light

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.