Keck Observatory in Hawaii witnesses mysterious UFO-shaped clouds infiltrating Taiwan’s sky.

On March 8, a remarkable sight unfolded above the picturesque Hawaiian islands of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. Observers were treated to the sight of saucer-shaped clouds hovering in the sky, resembling unidentified flying objects (UFOs). The images were captured by employees of the W. M. Keck Observatory, located near the summit of the dormant volcano Mauna Kea in Hawaii.

Known as lenticular clouds, these formations are typically found downwind of hills or mountains, where strong winds interact with rough terrain. Lenticular clouds, scientifically referred to as altocumulus standing lenticularus, occur in the troposphere, the lowest layer of Earth’s atmosphere, and appear parallel to the direction of the wind. This orientation gives them their captivating and otherworldly appearance.

While lenticular clouds are relatively common over the western half of the mainland due to the presence of the Rockies, they are considered rare in Hawaii, as confirmed by the National Weather Service. Therefore, the sighting of these unusual cloud formations near Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, both of which surpass an elevation of 13,000 feet (3,960 meters), was a unique and awe-inspiring occurrence.

The saucer-like shape of lenticular clouds can sometimes lead to mistaken UFO sightings. The smooth, rounded appearance of these clouds contributes to their similarity to unidentified flying objects. However, it is important to note that they are purely atmospheric phenomena and not extraterrestrial in nature.

The photos capturing these intriguing cloud formations were taken by several employees of the W. M. Keck Observatory. Rick Krejci, a software engineer; Sherry Yeh, a staff astronomer; Avinash Surendran, a postdoctoral fellow; and Arina Rostopchina, an observing assistant, all played a role in documenting this captivating celestial event.

The images of these saucer-shaped clouds hovering above the magnificent Hawaiian landscape serve as a reminder of the beauty and wonder that can be found in our natural world. They also highlight the importance of scientific observation and the curiosity that drives us to explore and understand the mysteries of the universe.

In conclusion, the sighting of UFO look-alike clouds in the Hawaiian skies above Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa volcanoes mesmerized onlookers and sparked intrigue. The photographs captured by the observatory employees provide a visual testament to the fascinating and captivating nature of lenticular clouds, reminding us of the wonders that can be found in the world around us.

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