Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the altitude at which the sky appears to turn black, prompted by a question from a participant's nephew after a flight. The conversation explores various altitudes and perceptions of sky color, touching on both subjective experiences and atmospheric conditions.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- One participant notes that the transition from blue to black is gradual rather than sudden as altitude increases.
- Another participant cites test pilots claiming the sky appears black at 100,000 feet, while Concorde passengers reportedly observed it at 60,000 feet.
- A participant mentions specific atmospheric pressures at various altitudes, indicating that the sky is definitively black at 250,000 feet due to the absence of atmospheric pressure.
- One response suggests that there is no specific altitude where the sky turns black, comparing it to the gradual onset of darkness at night, with a rough estimate of it being very dark around 70,000 feet and more or less black by 100,000 feet.
- A later reply questions the interpretation of Concorde passengers' experiences, suggesting that they might have perceived blackness when looking up rather than in the ambient environment.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express differing views on the specific altitude at which the sky appears black, with no consensus reached on a definitive answer. The discussion includes both subjective experiences and varying interpretations of atmospheric conditions.
Contextual Notes
The discussion lacks specific empirical data to support the claims made, and participants rely on anecdotal evidence and personal experiences. The definitions of "black" and the conditions under which it is perceived are not clearly established.