Articles About Atmospheric Science, Meteorology, and Climatology

California Halos

This article explores the fascinating phenomenon of halos in California, where high cirrus clouds create breathtaking displays of colorful arcs and rare formations like the Parry arc. The study of these atmospheric optics provides valuable insights into the workings of our atmosphere and the wonders of the natural world.

OPOD - Eiger Banner Cloud Iridescence

This article explores the mesmerizing Eiger Banner Cloud Iridescence, a captivating atmospheric phenomenon formed by wind flow, pressure differentials, and moisture content, resulting in the vibrant display of colors in thin clouds. It highlights the interplay of light interference and droplet size in creating the awe-inspiring beauty found in our atmosphere.

Rays ~ Two Views

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of crepuscular rays, delving into two fascinating aspects: the nature of cloud shadows and the perspective effect. It highlights the role of atmospheric particles and weather conditions in the formation and visibility of these stunning rays, while also discussing their cultural significance and the beauty they hold for photographers and nature enthusiasts.

Halos at Whistler, Canada - OPOD

This article explores the mesmerizing display of halos captured in Whistler, Canada, showcasing the enchanting phenomenon of atmospheric optics. It delves into the unusual features of the diamond dust display and unveils the mysteries and complexities behind the formation of halos in the sky.

OPOD - Tube Colours

This article explores the mystery of vibrant interference patterns and colors found within aluminum tubes, shotgun choke tubes, and glass capillaries. By delving into the world of interference and thin films, the author unravels the mechanism behind these captivating displays.

Gegenschein, Counter Glow

This article explores the elusive atmospheric optics phenomenon known as gegenschein or counter glow, which manifests as a faint elongated smudge against the starry backdrop. It delves into the details of observing and understanding the gegenschein, while highlighting its beauty and mysteries.

Jackson Hole Ice Halo Display - OPOD

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of ice halos, focusing on a spectacular display captured in Jackson Hole. It highlights the role of ski-slope snow blowers in creating these rare optical phenomena and compares them to displays at the South Pole.

Magnetosphere and aurora

This article explores the intricate relationship between Earth's magnetosphere and the formation of aurorae, revealing that particles from the sun are trapped and accelerated by the combined magnetic fields of the sun and Earth. It also discusses how solar flares, coronal mass ejections (CMEs), and coronal holes can amplify the solar wind and contribute to the creation of aurorae.

Mystery White Spot

The article explores the phenomenon of the "Mystery White Spot," a bright spot far from the sun that has intrigued sky watchers for years. By carefully observing and analyzing the surrounding conditions, researchers have uncovered that the spot is an ice halo, specifically a radiant 120° parhelion.

OPOD - Iridescence, Raven, Wigan

The article explores the mesmerizing phenomenon of cloud iridescence, which creates a kaleidoscope of colors in the sky through the scattering of light by small particles. It highlights the interplay between sunlight, water droplets, and ice crystals, and emphasizes the awe-inspiring beauty of these fleeting moments of vibrant colors suspended in the atmosphere.

Rainbows & Zero Order Glow - OPOD

This article explores the fascinating world of rainbows and introduces a lesser-known atmospheric optics phenomenon called the Zero Order Glow, providing captivating visuals and insights into these natural wonders.

High and low aerial glories

This article explores the formation, appearance, and factors influencing the size and visibility of high and low aerial glories, captivating atmospheric optical phenomena observed from airplanes. It delves into the interplay between shadow, cloud droplets, and sunlight, shedding light on the intricate physics behind glory formation and the influence of airborne particles.

Lowitz arcs - Washington DC

This article explores the captivating Lowitz arcs phenomenon observed in Washington DC on November 27, 2006, showcasing stunning images and discussing the scientific principles behind their formation.

Shrinking Heads and Sharper Sundials

This article explores the intriguing phenomenon of shrinking heads and sharper sundials caused by the interaction of shadows with the sun and objects. It discusses the anatomy of shadows, the role of umbra and penumbra, and how second shadows can create sharper edges.

Supernumerary Rainbows

This article explores the fascinating phenomenon of supernumerary rainbows, which are faint bands of colors that appear inside the primary or secondary rainbow. It discusses the science behind their formation and highlights captivating examples captured in photographs, showcasing the beauty and mystery of these celestial companions.

22° Lunar Halo Quebec

This article explores the mesmerizing 22° lunar halo in Quebec, delving into the allure of lunar halos and their formation through refraction. It also discusses other atmospheric phenomena such as moondogs and moonbows, and provides tips for capturing the beauty of the lunar halo through photography.

Circumhorizon Arcs - Gallery

This article explores the captivating world of circumhorizon arcs, showcasing their formation, characteristics, and a stunning gallery of images that will leave readers in awe. Witness the vibrant colors and mesmerizing shapes of these optical marvels as sunlight passes through ice crystals in cirrus clouds, creating a spectacular display of natural beauty.

Gobi Desert Glow

This article explores the fascinating phenomenon of the "Gobi Desert Glow," an opposition glow that occurs when flying over the Gobi Desert. It delves into the identification, possible explanations, and the broader occurrence of opposition glows in various locations.

Lunar Corona, Ontario Canada

This article explores the mesmerizing lunar corona phenomenon captured in Ontario, Canada in January '07 by Lauri Kangas, providing valuable insights into the size and dimensions of the water droplets responsible for its formation. It serves as a reminder of the beauty and wonders of celestial phenomena and the intricate world of atmospheric optics.

Two pillars

This article explores the phenomenon of sun pillars, vertical columns of light that extend from the Sun, discussing their formation, observation, and photography, highlighting their educational value and the appreciation they inspire for the wonders of nature.