Considering the unusual and extreme weather all over the world, one would hope that our pollies could at least agree to set some goals for global warming. The jet stream is totally ruining conditions down here; I haven't even bothered getting the scope out for the past few weeks.
Jetstream is a stream of air that can travel up to 300kmm/ hour. It is just the air not the cloud. High cloud has all sorts of causes, when people talk about the jet stream they are referring to the stream of air, whether it is not in the area of if it is how violent it will be. On clear nights the jet stream can affect the stability of the seeing. It can make the image dance around like it is in a washing mashing machine.
No it can't be seen Ken, except when we look at planets or stars. The Jet stream should be viewed as an invisible high speed river of air at high altitude that is not bounded by banks; it is free to roam anywhere. Its ability to move make it somewhat unpredictable. Even with the charts. Although it can most commonly be in high concentration when a cold front is present. Then cloud will be seen. However many times cloud and the jet stream are not mutually exclusive.
Anyway, I think you understand my rantings now. We can talk more about this at the camp if you like.
Ha, had a wonderful night last night. Bagged 10 deep-sky objects (8 oc and 2 galaxies). But it was cold again (-2°C). I hope I'm not irritating you guys .
(sorry, had to!)
Grrrr!
