Family members saw different things in the image, including a bird, dragon, or face. Because the shape appeared in several photos, they knew it was not simply a camera smudge.
The explanation was an unusual cloud formation illuminated by moonlight. Tiny water droplets or ice crystals in the clouds reflected and scattered the light, creating bright and dark areas.
The familiar-looking shape was caused by pareidolia, the brain’s tendency to see recognizable patterns in random forms. What looked mysterious was simply a beautiful combination of clouds, moonlight, and perfect timing.
