What phenomenon causes stars to appear to twinkle when viewed from Earth's surface?

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Atmospheric scintillation occurs when turbulent pockets of air at different temperatures bend starlight as it passes through Earth's atmosphere. This is why stars twinkle more near the horizon, where light must travel through more atmosphere. Experienced stargazing(Deals) enthusiasts check atmospheric seeing conditions before heading out, as nights with less turbulence provide sharper views through a telescope.

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