Drone photographer Hommer Shen (沈張鴻) captured stunning footage of the Taipei 101 skyscraper piercing through the clouds at an altitude of 780 meters.
As the drone ascends through the thick cloud layer, the tower’s peak emerges, set against a mesmerizing peach-blush sunrise. However, capturing this spectacular sight required a precise combination of weather conditions.
Meteorologists explain that three key factors must align for such footage: an elevated, open location and the convergence of cold northern and warm southern air masses to trap the clouds at a lower altitude.
Shen noted that even his team hadn’t anticipated such a breathtaking view. They had been on standby since 11:30 p.m., waiting until 5:45 a.m. when the clouds moved in before launching the drone to seize the perfect moment. Given Taipei 101’s proximity to Songshan Airport, a restricted airspace with a general drone altitude limit of 60 meters, the team applied for filming permits from the Civil Aeronautics Administration a month in advance and carefully coordinated with the airport’s flight schedules.
The awe-inspiring sunrise above the sea of clouds captivated netizens, with many calling it a "god’s-eye view."