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11. Unique Cloud Lanes, Oman
11. Unique Cloud Lanes, Oman

These wispy rows of cloud or “cloud lanes” are recognized as a “landmark” by successive shuttle crews. This unique cloud formation off Oman is virtually constant at certain times of the year. The clouds are created by a small vortex in the low-level wind current. There is little difference between the ocean and atmosphere temperatures here, but the air current may have been subjected to heating from the Somali Current.

STS 2, November 1981. Picture #2-10-649.

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