Noctilucent clouds are an extremely rare natural phenomenon, primarily observed in regions like the UK, Antarctica, and North America… Therefore, the bright cloud formation on the evening of February 13 at Ba Den Mountain has sparked considerable excitement online, drawing comparisons to noctilucent clouds.
On the night of February 13, many residents around Ba Den Mountain captured images of a glowing cloud covering the summit. Immediately, these unusual images spread widely across social media.
Image resembling noctilucent clouds at Ba Den Mountain on the night of February 13.
These clouds illuminate the sky without any energy source, attributed to a phenomenon known as light refraction; scientists explain that these are noctilucent clouds—streaks of silver-blue or golden light that shine brightly after the sun has set below the horizon.
Unlike other cloud types, noctilucent clouds form at such high altitudes that they continue to reflect light even after sunset. This type of cloud is believed to be composed of ice crystals in the mesosphere, at altitudes ranging from 75 to 85 kilometers.
Approximately 99.99% of the atmosphere exists below this layer. They form when water vapor condenses around tiny dust particles suspended in the mesosphere and freezes, creating ice crystals that can reflect light. Noctilucent clouds are rarely observed with the naked eye near the poles (Antarctica) but can sometimes appear at lower latitudes such as the USA, Canada, the UK, and Denmark…
According to long-time residents around the mountain, clouds swirling above Ba Den are not an uncommon sight.
Ba Den Mountain remains, but the clouds change daily, never the same.
In late November 2022, residents of Tay Ninh had the chance to witness a cloud formation resembling a cone or flying saucer covering the summit of Ba Den Mountain. During the New Year holiday, the mountain also featured a fantastical phoenix-shaped cloud. Less than a month later, at the end of January 2023, a fire rainbow once again appeared atop the mountain.
Known as the “Roof of Southern Vietnam,” Ba Den Mountain has long been famous as a sacred pilgrimage site. Recently, this location has also become a popular “cloud hunting” spot for young people. The allure of clouds and unique natural phenomena inspires a desire for adventure, excitement, and despite the time, effort, and money involved, many young enthusiasts are eager to experience and explore their passion.
Strangely enough, even though it is still Ba Den Mountain, the clouds change every day, never the same, even at night. Therefore, “cloud hunting,” exploring the unique and rare phenomena of Ba Den Mountain not only satisfies curiosity but also represents a journey to conquer nature and discover a “slow” lifestyle in places that seem to have been forgotten.
