We see contrails every day in the Boulder skies. Colored like clouds, they are the straight lines in the sky that trail jet planes. And what are they? Why do they appear at all? Some of the Most Interesting Contrails I’ve Seen       pic Lensworth Contrails, short for “condensation trails,” are cloud-like trails left behind by aircraft as they fly through the sky. These are a specific type of cirrus cloud formed when the water vapor from an airplane’s exhaust mixes with the cold air at high altitudes. The interaction between the hot exhaust gases and the cold air causes... Read More

The  Boulder Colorado sky of the setting sun, lighting up our clouds with beauty and contrails.  Photo Debi Dodge Contrails, short for condensation trails, are the visible trails of water vapor or ice crystals that form behind aircraft flying at high altitudes. Their appearance is a common sight in the sky, often seen as long, thin white lines that can vary significantly in appearance. Understanding the factors that influence their formation and the reasons behind their diverse appearances involves a blend of meteorology, aerodynamics, and physics. Unusual Contrails at Sunset Over The Front... Read More