The cusp/cleft region is composed of direct entry magnetosheath and magnetospheric boundary layer plasma. Much effort has recently been put forth in distinguishing the individual particle signatures of these regions. This report uses the Viking UV imager to show variable optical signatures of the cusp/cleft region. The region has been classified into four categories via their particle signatures: the cusp proper, cusp, cleft, and plasma mantle. Time series plots of intensity profiles along the Viking footprint are used to show the evolution of the cusp/cleft region during different auroral morphologies. These profiles establish that the observed emissions are located at the footprint of the cleft region. In addition, the region defined as the cusp was found poleward of this continuous emission. These data are also compared to recent particle particle studies of the cusp/cleft region and to appropriate topological models. ¿American Geophysical Union 1993