Articles About Atmospheric Science, Meteorology, and Climatology

Today's Feature Incredible Twilights

The article explores the recent series of stunning and vibrant sunset and dawn twilights in Europe, offering alternative explanations to volcanic dust for the phenomenon. It highlights the presence of Type1 polar stratospheric clouds, cold anticyclonic weather conditions, and atmospheric aerosols as contributing factors to the breathtaking colors and brightness witnessed during these twilights.

OPOD - Siding Spring

This article explores the captivating atmospheric optical phenomena captured by James Watson Photography at Siding Spring Observatory, offering a detailed understanding of these enchanting effects. From the vibrant colors of dusk to the illusions created by shadow hiding and the bluish appearance of distant objects, this article provides a glimpse into the wonders of atmospheric optics.

Virginian Halos

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of "Virginian Halos" - a mesmerizing display of halos in the sky caused by the interaction of light with ice crystals in the atmosphere. It delves into the various elements, such as the 22° halo and sundogs, that contribute to this enchanting atmospheric phenomenon.

Anti-crepuscular rays

This article explores the phenomenon of anti-crepuscular rays, their formation, and the stunning scenes they create. It discusses the interplay of sunlight and atmospheric particles, the conditions required to witness these rays, and the captivating colors they exhibit.

OPOD - Greenland Halos

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of Greenland Halos, delving into the diverse range of halos formed by crystal habits and orientations. It highlights the role of diamond dust in polar regions and the continuous journey of researchers to unravel the mysteries of atmospheric optics.

Atmospehric Halos

This article explores the formation and variety of atmospheric halos, from the familiar 22° halo to rare and intricate displays. It also provides tips on when and where to witness these captivating phenomena and introduces a simulator program for creating your own halo displays.

Circumzenithal Arc Queen of Halos

The article explores the mesmerizing atmospheric phenomenon known as the circumzenithal arc (CZA), highlighting its unique formation through ice crystals and its stunning display of color and light near the zenith. It also discusses the significance of the CZA in understanding weather patterns and its cultural allure throughout history.

OPOD - Rings

This article explores the science behind the optical phenomena of rings or halos observed around the sun or moon, delving into the principles of reflection and diffraction that contribute to their formation. Through mathematical simulations, scientists gain deeper insights into the behavior of light in different atmospheric conditions, enhancing our understanding of atmospheric optics and nature's captivating light displays.

Paraachute Optics, Glory and fogbow

This article explores the captivating optical phenomena of glories and fogbows that can be witnessed while parachuting, revealing the science behind these enchanting visual displays in the sky. The interplay between sunlight, clouds, and minuscule water droplets creates vibrant glories and ethereal fogbows, offering a unique vantage point to witness nature's artistry firsthand.

OPOD - Bishops Ring

The article explores the captivating phenomenon of Noctilucent clouds, their formation at Earth's highest altitudes, and the relationship between tropospheric global warming and mesosphere temperatures. It also discusses the increasing frequency of NLC displays and the role of digital photography in documenting and spreading awareness about these atmospheric wonders.

Aurora Australis from the ISS - Image

This article showcases a stunning image of the Aurora Australis captured from the International Space Station, highlighting the ethereal beauty and dynamic nature of this celestial phenomenon. The image offers a unique perspective that invites us to marvel at the wonders beyond our earthly boundaries and emphasizes the interconnectedness of our planet and the vastness of the universe.

Fall streaks - Virga

This article explores fall streaks, also known as virga, a captivating atmospheric phenomenon where cloud precipitation evaporates before reaching the ground. It discusses the formation, shape, and factors influencing fall streaks, highlighting their beauty and transient nature in the ever-changing sky.

Nacreous Clouds, Oslo, Norway

This article explores the captivating beauty of nacreous clouds in Oslo, Norway, highlighting their vibrant colors, rarity, and the importance of protecting the environment to preserve these extraordinary phenomena for future generations.

Lowitz Arcs - 1988 Dover, Delaware

The article explores the rare atmospheric phenomenon of Lowitz arcs, focusing on the 1988 observation in Dover, Delaware. It discusses the structure of Lowitz arcs, the observation process, and the significance of Robert Gorkin's images in contributing to the understanding of these optical phenomena.

Mount Kinabalu double shadow - OPOD

This article explores the fascinating atmospheric optics phenomenon known as the Mount Kinabalu double shadow, discussing its formation and the interplay of light, perspective, and topography. It showcases the contrasting dark and light shadows that stretch across the dawn air, providing a visual feast for those fortunate enough to witness it.

OPOD - Sugar Mountain Glories

This article explores the science behind the captivating "Sugar Mountain Glories" - fleeting optical displays in the sky that mesmerize observers with their ethereal beauty. Through stunning photographs and an examination of the interplay of light, mist, and shadows, the article enhances our appreciation for the natural world's ability to create breathtaking displays.

Cloud Iridescence

Cloud iridescence is a captivating atmospheric optics phenomenon created by the interference of light waves scattered by water droplets in clouds, resulting in vibrant and shimmering colors. This article explores the science behind cloud iridescence and its occurrence in specific cloud types, as well as the range of colors observed and its transient beauty.

Parisian Colours

This article explores the phenomenon of iridescence in the Parisian sky, discussing the science behind it and factors that influence its appearance. It also emphasizes the importance of observing iridescence safely and highlights the awe-inspiring beauty of this atmospheric optics display.

Colorado Rockies Halos

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of halos in the Colorado Rockies, including the presence of sundogs, parhelic circles, and colored arcs. It highlights the unique combination of weather conditions and geography that creates a dazzling spectacle of light and ice crystals in this region.

Pelican Halo

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of the Pelican Halo, a diffuse 22-degree halo that encircles the sun or moon. It delves into the science behind this mesmerizing atmospheric display, discussing the role of small ice crystals and their imperfections in creating the enchanting halo.