Articles About Atmospheric Science, Meteorology, and Climatology

Halo expedition, Finland - OPOD

Join a group of passionate halo enthusiasts on an enchanting expedition in Finland's Koli National Park as they capture the elusive beauty of halos dancing in the frigid air and unravel the secrets of atmospheric optics. Witness the captivating interplay between atmospheric halos and celestial bodies, and be awed by the intricate process of halo formation through meticulous observations and stunning imagery.

OPOD - Greenland cloud optics

This article explores the captivating atmospheric optics of Greenland, including cloudbows and glories, showcasing the beauty of light and water droplet interactions. Through stunning images captured by Ed Stockard, readers are transported into a world where nature's artistry is on full display.

OPOD - La Cassiopea & Caustics

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of caustics in atmospheric optics, showcasing their unique qualities of playfulness and movement. It delves into their formation, their significance as natural lenses, and the intriguing questions they raise about the behavior of light.

Spring Zodiacal Light

The article discusses the captivating phenomenon of Zodiacal Light, which occurs when sunlight scatters off interplanetary dust, creating a cone of pearly light visible in the evening and pre-dawn skies. It provides tips for optimal viewing and mentions the best times to observe this celestial display.

England Halo Display February 9, 2001

The article explores the mesmerizing display of atmospheric halos observed in England on February 9, 2001, highlighting the similarities to polar regions and the specific crystal formations responsible for the captivating phenomenon. The images captured during this event offer a glimpse into the beauty of the skies and deepen our understanding of atmospheric optics.

First Cuckoo of Spring?

This article explores the phenomenon of pollen coronae, which are mesmerizing ringed displays created by the scattering and diffraction of sunlight by pollen grains in the sky during spring. It discusses the science behind these optical effects and highlights the beauty and variations in pollen coronae shapes.

Opposition effect on road surface

This article explores the opposition effect on road surfaces and other similar environments, discussing its characteristics, possible explanations, and the need for further research. It highlights the captivating glow that can be observed under specific lighting conditions and surface textures, emphasizing the complexity and wonder of nature's optical phenomena.

Virga, fallstreaks

The article explores the captivating atmospheric phenomenon of virga and fallstreaks, explaining their formation, characteristics, and global occurrence. It highlights their mesmerizing beauty and educational value, inviting readers to appreciate the wonders of nature.

OPOD - Noctilucent Clouds, Denmark

This article explores the mesmerizing beauty of Noctilucent clouds, Earth's highest clouds that form at extreme altitudes in the mesosphere. It discusses their increasing prevalence and the connection between their occurrence and tropospheric global warming.

S England Noctilucents

This article explores the mesmerizing nature of Noctilucent Clouds (NLCs) in Southern England, highlighting their composition, unique features, and fleeting visibility. It also emphasizes the captivating beauty of NLCs and encourages readers to appreciate their enchanting presence in the night sky.

Teacup microdroplets and colours - OPOD

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of teacup microdroplets and the mesmerizing colors they create on the surface of hot liquids. Through microscopy and high-speed video, scientists have discovered that these microdroplets levitate above the liquid's surface, forming triangular grids and creating an ever-changing display of vibrant colors.

Auroral curtains, Alaska

This article explores the mesmerizing beauty and scientific intricacies of auroral curtains in Alaska, showcasing their ethereal displays of green atomic oxygen emission that captivate observers. It highlights how Alaska's unique geographical location and pristine wilderness make it an ideal vantage point for witnessing these awe-inspiring natural phenomena.

OPOD - Multibows, Niagara

Discover the mesmerizing beauty of multibows at Niagara Falls, captured in stunning photographs by Michiel de Boer. These unique rainbow segments, formed by individual floodlights and mist droplets, create a magical visual spectacle that showcases the intricacies of atmospheric optics.

OPOD - Twinkling

This article explores the phenomenon of twinkling stars, also known as atmospheric scintillation, and delves into the role of caustic surfaces in creating the mesmerizing twinkling effect. It discusses how refraction and dispersion of light contribute to the fluctuations in brightness and color variations of twinkling stars, providing a deeper understanding of this captivating display of light and color in the night sky.

Lunar corona, Croatia - OPOD

This article explores the captivating atmospheric phenomenon of a lunar corona captured in Croatia, discussing the unique conditions that led to its formation and providing insights into the physics behind it. Through the stunning photograph taken by Marko Posavec, readers are reminded of the beauty and complexity of our natural world.

OPOD - Refracted Otter

This article explores the fascinating phenomenon of refraction through the captivating image of a split otter, delving into the science behind why light waves behave in such a peculiar manner. It examines the mechanics of refraction and the role of frequency and color perception, highlighting the ongoing quest to unravel the mysteries of this optical phenomenon.

Contrail Shadows

This article explores the intriguing phenomenon of contrail shadows, delving into their characteristics and shedding light on their enigmatic nature. It discusses how contrail shadows form, their optical effects, and the practical implications they have for understanding the atmosphere and the impact of aviation on the environment.

Greenler's Rainbows halos and Glories is back

Greenler's Rainbows, Halos, and Glories" is a long-awaited book that explores the science behind atmospheric optics phenomena such as rainbows, halos, and glories, offering a wealth of knowledge and inspiring curiosity among enthusiasts and scientists alike. After years of being unavailable, this invaluable resource is back to ignite a new generation of sky gazers and deepen our understanding of the captivating world of atmospheric optics.

Moon Dogs, Paraselenae, Tucson, Arizona

This article explores the captivating atmospheric phenomenon of moon dogs, also known as paraselenae, and how they can be observed in Tucson, Arizona. It discusses their formation through the interaction of moonlight with ice crystals in high cirrus clouds and highlights Tucson's favorable conditions for witnessing these awe-inspiring displays of light.

Lower sun pillars

This article explores the captivating atmospheric phenomenon of lower sun pillars, shedding light on how they form and where to spot them. It provides tips for observing and photographing these radiant beams, adding a touch of magic to our skies.