night sky

The night sky refers to the atmosphere as seen from the Earth's surface during the nighttime, when sunlight is not directly illuminating the area. It is characterized by the visibility of celestial bodies such as stars, planets, the moon, and often artificial satellites. The appearance of the night sky can vary significantly based on geographic location, light pollution, and atmospheric conditions. Communities far from urban areas may experience clearer and more detailed views of celestial phenomena, including constellations, meteor showers, and the Milky Way galaxy. The night sky is also a subject of study in astronomy and has cultural significance in many societies, often inspiring art, mythology, and scientific inquiry. Various celestial events, such as eclipses or planetary alignments, can also draw the attention of both casual observers and astronomers.