© Hiro Naito

Yamanakako-mura, Minamitsuru-gun, Yamanashi prefecture, Japan

Latitude: 35° 24' 38'' N

Longitude: 138° 51' 39'' E

30 September 2014 0543 (Local Time)

Image P/S code: P.25.4

Image I.D.: 6077

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  Orographic cap cloud

  The main feature in this picture, at the centre of the image, is an orographic cap cloud on the summit of Mount Fuji (3 776 m) in Japan. 

  A cap cloud forms in a stable airstream when moist air ascends the windward side of the mountain, cooling to saturation and producing the cloud. The cloud remains stationary whilst air flows through it, evaporating as the air descends on the leeward side. Cap clouds are a form of the species lenticularis, and this example is Altocumulus lenticularis.

  Links in the image description will highlight features on the image. Mouse over the features for more detail.

  © Hiro Naito
  Yamanakako-mura, Minamitsuru-gun, Yamanashi prefecture, Japan
  Latitude: 35° 24' 38'' N
  Longitude: 138° 51' 39'' E
  30 September 2014 0543 (Local Time)
  
  
  Image P/S code: P.25.4
  Image I.D.: 6077