cloud layer

In the case of the sun this cloud layer is always present and is that part which we have learned to call the photosphere.

The ship swung down into the cloud layer; floating wisps of gray vapor streamed past the orbiting Cavour.

The cloud layer that enveloped Earth's sister planet swirled and twisted.

The sky, or rather the cloud layer, dominated the atmosphere with its weird pinkness.

It raced madly over the irregular upper surface of the cloud layer.