Quck answer

A lenticular cloud is a unique cloud formation that resembles a lens or saucer shape. These clouds typically form near mountainous areas or in areas with strong winds. Lenticular clouds are formed when moist air is forced to rise over a mountain or other obstacle, causing it to cool and condense into a cloud. The air then descends on the other side of the mountain, causing the cloud to maintain its shape. Lenticular clouds are often stationary and can appear stacked on top of each other. They are known for their smooth, lens-like appearance and are a popular sight for photographers and skywatchers.

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Have you ever noticed a peculiar sight in the sky? It doesn’t resemble a bird or an airplane. Could it possibly be a UFO? Well, none of the above—it’s actually a cloud.

However, it’s not just any ordinary cloud. If it appears similar to a UFO, chances are it’s a lenticular cloud. These clouds derive their name from their lens or saucer-like shape.

Some people refer to lenticular clouds as “flying saucer clouds,” and it’s not difficult to understand why! They have been mistaken for UFOs on more than one occasion. Other nicknames for lenticular clouds include “cloudships,” “clouds of heaven,” and “lennies.” They also have a fancy scientific name: Altocumulus lenticularis.

Lenticular clouds may seem extraterrestrial, but they are actually a natural result of scientific processes occurring right here on Earth. These stationary clouds form at high altitudes and are typically aligned perpendicular to the wind’s direction.

This type of cloud often forms near mountain ranges. When stable humid air passes over the top of a mountain, it creates a series of large waves on the downwind side of the range. If the temperature on this side is sufficiently low, the moisture in the air condenses, resulting in the distinctively shaped lenticular clouds we observe.

Under the right conditions, these clouds can form what scientists call a “wave cloud.” Lenticular clouds also have the unique characteristic of occasionally exhibiting bright colors, known as irisation, along their edges. This adds to their otherworldly appearance!

Due to the turbulent air waves that form lenticular clouds, airplane pilots try to avoid flying near them. The turbulence can make flying near these clouds a bumpy and frightening experience.

On the other hand, many glider pilots adore lenticular clouds. The same air currents that make flying in an airplane challenging allow gliders to ascend to great heights and travel long distances.

Have you ever spotted a lenticular cloud? Did it make you think of a UFO? These clouds are a remarkable sight in the sky!

Try It Out

Continue learning with the assistance of a friend, family member, and the activities below!

Explore the World of Clouds

If you’re ready for a hands-on experience, try creating your own cloud using simple materials. All you need is warm water, an empty two-liter bottle, and some matches. Remember to ask an adult for assistance during this exciting science experiment. Follow the step-by-step instructions provided in the Cloud in a Bottle experiment and share what you’ve learned from making your very own cloud!

Take a look at these fascinating pictures of lenticular clouds. Can you understand why they are sometimes mistaken for UFOs? Imagine encountering one of these clouds in person. Discuss your thoughts and impressions with a friend or family member.

Why not go cloud-gazing with a companion? Choose a day when the sky is filled with fluffy clouds and find a spacious area like a public park where you can sit together and observe the sky. While watching the clouds, talk about what shapes and patterns you notice and share your knowledge about these formations. Do any of them resemble familiar objects?

Wonder Sources

• https://www.weather.gov/abq/features_acsl (accessed 16 June 2021)
• https://earthsky.org/earth/best-photos-beautiful-lenticular-clouds-around-the-world/ (accessed 16 June 2021)