Dusk
From Free net encyclopedia
Image:Dusk in Breaux Bridge, LA.jpg
Dusk or civil dusk is the time at which the sun is 6 degrees below the horizon in the evening. At this time objects are distinguishable but there is no longer enough light to perform any outdoor activities.
Nautical dusk is 12 degrees below the horizon in the evening. At this time, objects are no longer distinguishable, and the horizon is no longer visible to the naked eye.
Astronomical dusk is the time at which the sun is 18 degrees below the horizon in the evening. At this time the sun no longer illuminates the sky.
Dusk should not be confused with sunset, which is the moment when the trailing edge of the Sun itself sinks below the horizon.
In contrast to dawn, dusk is the time of day when it is said evil spirits, especially vampires are permitted to begin their mischief, as they are creatures of the night. This is reflected in Mussorgsky's piece "Night on Bald Mountain", popularized by Disney's Fantasia.