Articles About Atmospheric Science, Meteorology, and Climatology

Zodiacal Light, Zodiacal Band, Gegenschein and Red Airglow

This article explores the captivating atmospheric optics phenomena of Zodiacal Light, Zodiacal Band, Gegenschein, and Red Airglow, providing insights into their causes and visibility. Astrophotographer Doug Zubenel's stunning all-sky image showcases these phenomena, capturing the ethereal glow of the Zodiacal Band, the brightness of the Milky Way, and the mesmerizing crimson hue of the Red Airglow.

Earth Shadow & BOV

This article explores the captivating atmospheric phenomena of Earth's Shadow and the Belt of Venus, delving into the science behind these remarkable displays of light and color during twilight. It provides tips for optimal viewing and emphasizes the breathtaking experience of observing these phenomena in the sky.

Paranal, Chile Sunset

The article explores a rare atmospheric optics phenomenon witnessed at the Paranal Observatory in Chile, featuring a double sunset mirage with a highly flattened upper sun image and an undistorted lower sun image. The interplay between atmospheric conditions, including inversions and clouds, contributes to the creation of this captivating event.

Airglow colours - OPOD

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of airglow colors in the night sky, discussing their origins, composition, and the intricate processes that create these ethereal hues. It highlights the different colors of airglow, such as deep red, green, red/orange, and faint blue, and explains how they are formed through solar excitation, chemiluminescence, and collisions in the upper atmosphere.

Forest glade corona

The article explores the mesmerizing atmospheric optical phenomenon of the forest glade corona, which can be observed in misty woods and forests. It discusses how water droplets, uniform in size, create concentric rings that are enhanced by the presence of trees, resulting in a visually stunning spectacle.

Light Pillars to the zenith

This article explores the science behind the convergence of light pillars towards the zenith, discussing how ice crystals at different altitudes in the atmosphere create the illusion. It highlights the conditions necessary to witness these captivating optical phenomena and encourages readers to appreciate the natural wonders of our atmosphere.

Lower Sun Pillar, Arctic Russia - OPOD

The article discusses the lower sun pillar, a stunning atmospheric optics phenomenon captured in Arctic Russia, created by sunlight reflecting off wobbly hexagonal plate crystals. It also explores the subsun, a related feature formed by better-aligned crystals, offering a glimpse into the beauty and complexity of these optical displays.

Rays to the anti-sun

This article explores the phenomenon of "rays to the anti-sun," also known as anti-crepuscular rays, delving into their causes, characteristics, and the science behind their formation. It discusses the convergence of shadows and rays towards a point opposite the sun, creating a captivating visual spectacle in the sky.

Winter Circumzenithal Arc

This article explores the Winter Circumzenithal Arc, a stunning atmospheric phenomenon that occurs during the winter months when sunlight interacts with ice crystals in the atmosphere, creating a vibrant display of colors in a circular arc formation. It discusses the factors affecting visibility and compares the Winter Circumzenithal Arc with sundogs, while also highlighting its cultural significance and providing tips for capturing its beauty through photography.

OPOD - Meat Iridescence

This article explores the phenomenon of meat iridescence, discussing its causes and the scientific principles behind it. It reveals that the vibrant colors observed on sliced meats are purely optical effects and do not affect the edibility of the meat.

Quetelet colours in a ditch

This article explores the science behind Quetelet colours, mesmerizing optical effects that can be observed on still water or windows with accumulated dust. It delves into the formation, characteristics, and variations of these vibrant colors, revealing the hidden beauty in unexpected places.

Elusive Parhelion

This article explores the elusive and delicate nature of subtle sundogs, which can be observed when cirrus streaks drift across specific regions of the sky. It highlights the importance of patience and observation in appreciating these fleeting phenomena.

Lunar Halo

This article explores the mesmerizing optical phenomenon of lunar halos, explaining how they are created by the interaction of moonlight with ice crystals in the Earth's atmosphere. It also highlights their occurrence around a full moon and their significance in understanding atmospheric optics on other celestial bodies.

Glowing Peaks

The article explores the captivating phenomenon of Glowing Peaks, where mountain summits come alive with a mesmerizing display of colors during twilight. It discusses the atmospheric optics at play and provides tips for capturing the magic of this natural wonder.

Green flash Tenerife

This article explores the science behind the green flash phenomenon observed in Tenerife, highlighting the role of atmospheric conditions, inversion layers, and atmospheric waves. It emphasizes the beauty and complexity of atmospheric optics and invites readers to appreciate the wonders of our planet's atmosphere.

OPOD - Subtle Sky Colours

This article explores the subtle and nuanced colors of the sky, specifically focusing on the moon corona and its complex blend of hues. It delves into the formation of these colors through the diffraction of light and highlights the remarkable contrast between the corona and its light source, the moon.

Rays over the Tasman Sea, New Zealand

This article explores the mesmerizing phenomenon of rays over the Tasman Sea in New Zealand, highlighting the interplay between sunlight, ocean waves, and atmospheric conditions. It showcases the captivating beauty of nature's artistry and evokes a sense of wonder and admiration.

Oregon Rare Halos

The article explores the rare and captivating halos observed in Oregon, highlighting the intricate beauty and complexity of atmospheric optics. It delves into the alignment and orientation of crystals that shape these optical phenomena, offering a glimpse into the wonders of nature in the ever-changing sky.

Freezing Bubbles, Slovakia - OPOD

This article explores the fascinating natural phenomenon of freezing bubbles in Slovakia, showcasing the process of crystal growth and the vibrant colors that result from thin film interference and birefringence. It highlights the beauty and complexity of the natural world, inviting readers to immerse themselves in the enchanting world of freezing bubbles.

Baltic Halos - OPOD

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of Baltic Halos, which are created by individual diamond dust crystals and add a magical touch to wintry landscapes. The article discusses how to differentiate between the 46° halo and the supralateral arc, providing valuable clues for observation.