Iridescent clouds, also known as rainbow clouds, are one of the most mesmerizing natural sky phenomena. These rare clouds display shimmering bands of pastel colors, similar to the effect of oil on water. The phenomenon occurs when tiny water droplets or ice crystals in the cloud scatter and diffract sunlight, creating a spectrum of iridescent colors. Unlike rainbows, which appear opposite the sun, iridescent clouds form near the sun and require very precise atmospheric conditions. The science be