This article explores the phenomenon of the parhelic circle, a circular halo that appears around the horizon when the sun is low in the sky. It discusses the varying brightness of the circle and how it changes under different sun angles.
This article explores the formation, characteristics, and stunning gallery of images capturing the beauty of circumzenithal arcs, a captivating atmospheric phenomenon created by sunlight interacting with ice crystals in the atmosphere. It highlights the unique shape, vibrant colors, and rarity of these arcs, inviting readers to appreciate the awe-inspiring splendor of our natural world.
This article explores the science behind sideways and vertical light pillars, explaining how these captivating atmospheric phenomena are formed by the reflection and refraction of light by plate-aspect ice crystals in the air. The article delves into the mechanisms behind the formation of these pillars and discusses related phenomena such as superparhelion and the divergent light 'parhelic circle'.
This article explores the rare atmospheric phenomenon of a lunar circumzenithal arc (CZA), highlighting its elusive nature and the conditions required for observation. Through the story of Eva Seidenfaden's encounter with a lunar CZA, the article emphasizes the captivating beauty and importance of documenting such atmospheric wonders.
The article highlights the rare sighting of anticrepuscular rays captured by Bert van Dijk in Gouda, the Netherlands. It explains the formation and conditions necessary for these parallel rays to appear during sunrise or sunset, offering a glimpse into the captivating atmospheric optics phenomenon.
This article explores the captivating phenomenon of frozen bubbles, discussing the process of their formation and the unique patterns that emerge in different temperature conditions. The beauty and complexity of frozen bubbles continue to inspire awe and wonder among photographers and enthusiasts alike.
The article explores the captivating phenomenon of the Green Flash at La Silla, Chile, a unique event in atmospheric optics witnessed as the sun sets over the Pacific Ocean. It delves into the different types of green flashes, the atmospheric conditions required for their occurrence, and the scientific research conducted to understand the underlying physics.
This article explores the captivating combination of rainbows and tulip fields in the Netherlands, highlighting the history of tulips and the mesmerizing spectacle created when rainbows dance among the vibrant blooms. It invites readers to appreciate the beauty and complexity of nature's wonders and serves as a visual delight for all.
This article explores the captivating natural phenomenon of moonbows and reflection bows at Yosemite Fall, highlighting the precise calculation, timing, and camera positioning required to capture their ethereal beauty. It discusses the key elements needed for their formation, such as a dark sky, a bright moon, ample spray, and a flooded meadow, while emphasizing the rarity and awe-inspiring nature of these spectacles.
This article explores the effect of drop size on the appearance of the primary rainbow, showing that larger raindrops create narrower and more saturated rainbows, while smaller raindrops produce broader and less saturated rainbows. The article also explains the role of wave behavior, interference, and polarization in understanding these variations.
This article explores the captivating phenomenon of indoor glories, discussing the science behind their formation and the unique conditions required to witness them. It also highlights a stunning photograph of an indoor glory captured by Michael Ellestad, showcasing the interplay between light, water droplets, and shadows.
This article explores the captivating colors of a California sunset and the atmospheric optics behind this stunning natural phenomenon. It also provides tips for photographing the beauty of a California sunset and highlights the emotional impact it has on observers.
The article explores the mesmerizing Mokelumne River Mirage, a captivating sunrise phenomenon near Isleton, California, delving into the science behind its formation and the enchanting visual effects it creates through temperature inversions. It showcases the beauty and mysteries of atmospheric optics, offering a deeper appreciation for the interplay between light and our atmosphere.
This article explores the mesmerizing phenomenon of impressionist reflections, where the interplay between light, water, and the surrounding environment creates a stunning visual spectacle. Impressionist artists sought to capture the fleeting moments of beauty created by the ever-changing reflections that danced upon water surfaces.
This article explores the mesmerizing play of light and shadow on Mount Toubkal in Morocco, delving into the science behind the triangular shadow and the polarization of the sky. It highlights the beauty and scientific intricacies of atmospheric optics, offering insights for scientific research and reminding us of the wonders that surround us.
This article explores the unique phenomenon of the "Denali Halos" observed in Denali National Park, Alaska, delving into the science behind their formation and showcasing their mesmerizing beauty. It discusses the combination of the circular inner 22° halo, the oval-shaped outer circumscribed halo, and the accompanying parhelic circle, offering a captivating visual experience of atmospheric optics.
This article explores the mesmerizing atmospheric optical phenomena of crepuscular rays and shadows, discussing their formation, factors influencing them, and tips for observing and photographing them. It also highlights their cultural significance and invites readers to marvel at the wonders of our atmosphere.
This article explores a collection of fascinating and awe-inspiring atmospheric optics phenomena captured from around the world, including crystal halos, three suns, sundogs, green flashes, and more. It invites readers to embark on a visual journey and discover the boundless beauty and endless possibilities of the atmospheric optics world.
The article explores the rare atmospheric phenomenon of a reflected town map in the sky, captured by Mia Heikkilä in Finland. This extraordinary sight is created by a thin layer of horizontally aligned ice crystals acting as mirrors, reflecting the town lights and forming an accurate map in the sky.
This article explores the mysterious phenomenon of 44-degree parhelia, rare optical phenomena that have been observed and documented, leaving scientists and enthusiasts in awe. It discusses their formation through multiple scattering and the need for further research to fully understand these enigmatic occurrences.