Condensation cloud

In humid air, the drop in temperature in the most rarefied portion of the shock wave can bring the air temperature below its dew point, at which moisture condenses to form a visible cloud of microscopic water droplets.

Such vapor can also be seen in low pressure regions during high–g subsonic maneuvers of aircraft in humid conditions.

Analysts of later nuclear bomb tests used the more general term condensation cloud.

The shape of the shock wave (influenced by different speed in different altitudes), and the temperature and humidity of different atmospheric layers determine the appearance of the Wilson clouds.

The top of a wing has a reduction of air pressure as part of the process of generating lift.

A 21-kiloton underwater nuclear weapon test, the Baker shot of Operation Crossroads , showing a Wilson cloud
Mushroom cloud with multiple condensation rings from the Castle Union 6.9 Mt hydrogen bomb test
500 tons of TNT detonated during Operation Sailor Hat , showing a Wilson cloud