The astronomical twilight begins when the center of the Sun reaches 12º and lasts until 18º. Although the aurora’s lights can be very faint at this point, it worth observing and decide on the best position for the camera or telescope. During this twilight phase, Earth and Sun’s alignment allows the Sun rays to be reflected off the Earth onto the Moon (this phenomenon is known as Earthshine).Īlso, the nautical twilight is perfect for starting to watch the aurora borealis. The nautical twilight is the perfect time to observe the dark side of the Moon, which usually cannot be seen because it is left in the shadow of the Sun. The term “nautical” refers to sailors who can guide themselves via well-known stars and the still visible horizon. Photographers are still able to take shots, but these will be dark and blurry. During this time, the majority of the stars are visible to the naked eye. This phase starts when the geometric center of the Sun is at between 6º and 12º below the horizon. The civil twilight is known as the “golden hour” or “magic hour.” During this period of time, the diffraction of the solar light makes the white light change to reds, and the clouds take on a consecutive manner unique yellow, orange, red, pink, purple, and blue colors. This is also the time when photographers capture amazing shots without any artificial light. The astronomers can easily spot Mercury and Venus during this golden hour. During this phase, the objects are still visible on the ground, and artificial lights are not needed if a fog is absent. The civil twilight is the phase that begins at sunset and lasts until the center of the Sun is at 6º below the horizon. There is a morning twilight and also an evening one, both having three distinctive phases: civil twilight, nautical twilight, and astronomical twilight.Įach one of these phases has its particular flavor and different experience for astronomers and photographers.
Twilight is the period of time when the sunlight is still visible, although the Sun is below the horizon.
In the equator’s proximity, the dark installs 20 or 30 minutes after sunset, while up north, it takes between 70 and 100 minutes until the night settles. To understand how long it takes to get dark can be far more complicated than you might think, and the topic depends on a series of factors like distance to Equator, altitudes, and different seasons. Darkness and clear sky are very important for stargazing as a golden hour for perfect photography. Knowing the exact time when it gets dark is equally essential for astronomers and photographers.
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