Anika Markle You might think flying high above the clouds would give you a perfect view of the stars. After all, you’re closer to space, right? But if you’ve ever pressed your face to the airplane window during a night flight and wondered why the stars are missing, you’re not alone. There’s actually a pretty simple reason behind it.
It’s All About the Light
Even though you’re far from bright city lights, the tiny lights inside the plane are enough to block your view of the stars. Think about being in a lit-up room at night. If the lights are on inside, you can’t really see out—but anyone outside can see in. That’s what’s happening on the plane.
A scientist named Ethan Siegel explained it like this: for your eyes to see clearly into the dark sky, it needs to be darker where you are than where you’re looking. But since planes have reading lights, seat-back screens, and even a glow from the exit signs, that soft light ruins your chance of seeing the stars.
Other Things That Get in the Way
It’s not just the cabin lights. Even from high up, light from cities and towns below can rise into the sky and make it harder to see stars. That’s called light pollution. And don’t forget the moon—when it’s shining bright, it washes out the faint twinkle of the stars too.
So, Will You Ever See Stars on a Plane?
It is possible—just not easy. You’d need a perfectly dark cabin, no moonlight, and a flight path far from major cities. If all those stars align (pun intended), you just might catch a glimpse of the night sky from above the clouds.
Until then, you’ll have to settle for a movie, games, naps, or just enjoying the world far below.