TheJeeronian t1_j64u7yn wrote on January 27, 2023 at 6:47 PM

Reply to comment by breckenridgeback in ELI5: How do we define the boundary between earth’s atmosphere and space? by crenshawcrane

This. The least arbitrary boundary would probably be the solar wind bow shock, but even that is fuzzy and certainly not spherical.

Chromotron t1_j66fxvp wrote on January 28, 2023 at 1:15 AM

But the bow shock is a result of the magnetic field, not atmospheric density or effects. Ultimately the question is "who cares?"; it doesn't matter at all if one is technically inside the atmosphere or not.

dontmentiontrousers t1_j68cpvi wrote on January 28, 2023 at 1:43 PM

I kinda like breathing, so there's that.

Davebobman t1_j68px89 wrote on January 28, 2023 at 3:30 PM

Then you probably aren't getting anywhere near 50 miles above sea level without breathing assistance.

dontmentiontrousers t1_j68q2ej wrote on January 28, 2023 at 3:31 PM

I'll just take the bus.

Davebobman t1_j690x5o wrote on January 28, 2023 at 4:47 PM

Where are we dropping?

dontmentiontrousers t1_j692apm wrote on January 28, 2023 at 4:57 PM

This ISS my stop.