Redder when the Sun sets and rises. Of course, the sky is not always blue. And Rayleigh scattering also explains why the sky tends to be reddish when the Sun is close to the horizon – at sunrise ...

Learn why the sky is blue through the lens of physics and chemistry. Discover the science behind Rayleigh scattering, light wavelengths, and atmospheric composition in this detailed explainer.

Unfortunately, even when the sun is shining, generally the blanket effect outweighs the reflector effect, says Barrett. And when the sun sets, there’s no contest.