When is it considered "night" according to AFI 11-202V3?

According to AFI 11-202V3, "night" is defined as the time when the sun is below the horizon, specifically the period between civil twilight periods. Civil twilight is when the center of the sun is between 0 and 6 degrees below the horizon, marking the transition from daylight to night and vice versa. This definition is crucial for flight operations and planning, especially concerning visibility and the performance of aircraft.

The distinction of using civil twilight periods emphasizes that there is a defined timeframe before full darkness sets in and after daylight when it still may be possible to see without artificial light. Understanding this definition is vital for pilots to ensure compliance with regulations and guidelines during night operations.