If an observer sees a widespread, pinkish or reddish horizontal band above the eastern horizon after sunset, what phenomenon are they likely observing instead of Venus?
Answer
The Belt of Venus (antitwilight arch)
The Belt of Venus is a broad, colored, hazy illumination opposite the sunset point, caused by sunlight illuminating dust layers, contrasting sharply with Venus, which is a distinct, steady point of light.
Related Questions
What celestial object is usually the brilliant beacon seen low in the western sky shortly after sunset?Besides the Sun and the Moon, what rank does Venus hold in terms of brightness among natural objects in the sky?What is the primary reason for Venus's exceptional luminosity as viewed from Earth?What component of Venus's thick atmosphere is responsible for reflecting about 70% of incoming sunlight?How does Venus earn the title 'Morning Star' versus 'Evening Star'?How does the light from Venus typically appear compared to distant stars when observed?What term measures the angular distance between Venus and the Sun as viewed from Earth?Approximately how often does Venus reach its greatest elongation, positioning it perfectly for evening viewing?If an observer sees a widespread, pinkish or reddish horizontal band above the eastern horizon after sunset, what phenomenon are they likely observing instead of Venus?What distinguishes Venus's movement relative to fixed stars when tracked over several consecutive evenings?