Articles About Atmospheric Science, Meteorology, and Climatology

Subparhelia

This article explores the fascinating phenomenon of subparhelia, also known as "mock suns," which are downward slanting spots of light located to the left and right of the subsun. It discusses how subparhelia are formed through the interaction of sunlight with ice crystals in the atmosphere and highlights the simulations and analysis that have deepened our understanding of these captivating optical phenomena.

Nevada Low Bow

The article explores the captivating Nevada Low Bow, a stunning atmospheric optics phenomenon that occurs when rain sweeps across the Nevada desert, creating a primary rainbow just above the horizon, accompanied by a fainter secondary bow. It discusses the scientific principles behind the phenomenon and provides tips for capturing this mesmerizing display through photography.

Bullet Rosettes & 22 degree Halos - OPOD

This article explores the formation, characteristics, and potential causes of bullet rosettes and 22° halos, captivating optical displays in the sky that have fascinated researchers and enthusiasts. It delves into the unique hexagonal columns of bullet rosettes and the distinct features of the 22° halo, shedding light on their contributions to atmospheric optics.

Twilight sky

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of the twilight sky and the science behind its mesmerizing colors, revealing the interplay of sunlight and atmospheric molecules. It delves into the significance of twilight, both visually and symbolically, and highlights its cultural and artistic impact.

Flight Deck Windshield Colours - OPOD

This article explores the vibrant colors observed on flight deck windshields, revealing that they are a result of the optical phenomena of birefringence and thin film interference. The complex structure and optical properties of these windshields create a fascinating interplay of light, showcasing the hidden beauty of these essential aircraft components.

Nacreous Clouds, Orsta Norway

The article explores the captivating phenomenon of nacreous clouds in Ørsta, Norway, showcasing a mesmerizing photograph of these rare formations. It discusses their unique composition, vibrant colors, and their significance in monitoring the Earth's ozone layer.

Multiple images through glass - OPOD

This article explores the formation of multiple images through glass, discussing the influence of tilted glass panes and the role of lens elements and filters in creating optical illusions. It also emphasizes the importance of documenting and analyzing these phenomena to deepen our understanding of atmospheric optics.

6 ringed corona

This article explores the fascinating phenomenon of the 6-ringed corona, a diffraction pattern formed when light interacts with water droplets in clouds. It discusses the challenges of capturing the delicate outer rings and the techniques used to preserve the intricate details of the lunar surface.

OPOD - Scottish Halos

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of ice halos in Scotland, showcasing stunning images that capture the beauty and diversity of atmospheric optics. It highlights the interplay between sunlight and ice crystals, revealing the intricacy and magic that unfolds in the skies above.

Golden Gate fogbow

The article explores the captivating Golden Gate fogbow phenomenon, discussing its formation, color spectrum, and factors influencing its visibility. It also offers tips for capturing this breathtaking display of atmospheric optics through photography.

Golden Gate Sundog

The article explores the formation, characteristics, and science behind the captivating Golden Gate Sundog, a rare atmospheric phenomenon that occurs when sunlight interacts with ice crystals, creating a vibrant halo of light around the sun. It discusses the unique beauty of the Golden Gate Sundog, its formation through the refraction of sunlight by ice crystals, and the specific atmospheric conditions required for its occurrence.

Subsun

This article explores the enigmatic subsun, an atmospheric phenomenon created by the reflection of sunlight off plate crystals, delving into its formation, characteristics, and mesmerizing visual spectacle. It reveals how the subsun appears as a blinding disk or oval, floating alongside aircraft and adding a touch of magic to the skies.

UK Rare Arc - OPOD

This article explores the mesmerizing optical phenomenon of the UK rare arc, also known as the circumhorizon arc, and its rarity in the United Kingdom compared to the United States. It discusses the conditions necessary for the formation of this stunning atmospheric display and distinguishes it from other similar phenomena.

5th Order Rainbow Discovery Image - OPOD

This article explores the discovery of the 5th order rainbow, captured in an image for the first time by Harald Edens. It discusses the characteristics and visibility of this elusive phenomenon and highlights the ongoing exploration of atmospheric optics.

Airplane induced iridescence - OPOD

This article explores the fascinating phenomenon of airplane induced iridescence, where sunlight interacts with small droplets around an aircraft's wing, creating a stunning display of vibrant colors. It discusses the science behind this optical wonder and how turbulence and sunlight play a role in its intensity and visibility.

Rays East & West

This article explores the optical phenomenon of crepuscular and anticrepuscular rays, explaining their formation and characteristics. It highlights how these parallel beams of light create a mesmerizing effect in the sky, adding a touch of magic to our everyday surroundings.

Twilight Rays

This article explores the science behind twilight rays, a captivating atmospheric optical phenomenon that occurs during twilight hours. It delves into the factors that contribute to their formation and highlights various types of twilight rays, providing tips for capturing their mesmerizing beauty through photography.

OPOD - Sky Pools

This article explores the intricate nature of skypools, fascinating optical phenomena that exhibit complex reflections of the sky and landscape on wavy water surfaces. Photographers capture these ever-changing skypools, which vanish with even slight changes in wind or water movement.

Breaking the Ice

This article explores the debate surrounding the origin of colors in pond ice, ultimately revealing that the captivating colors are a result of thin film interference and the interaction of light with air-filled fissures within the ice. Through experimentation and observation, the article deepens our understanding of the intricate optical phenomena that create the vibrant hues found in frozen landscapes.

London Cloudbow

This article explores the rare and captivating phenomenon of the London Cloudbow, a pink-hued arc in the sky that is easily missed if one is not paying close attention. It discusses how cloudbows are formed by smaller water droplets in the atmosphere and highlights their scientific significance in understanding atmospheric processes.