Articles About Atmospheric Science, Meteorology, and Climatology

OPOD - Pine Pollen Corona

The article explores the fascinating phenomenon of the Pine Pollen Corona, characterized by rings, oval rings, and bright spots formed by pollen grains. It showcases the intricate interplay between nature and its surroundings, reminding us of the awe-inspiring wonders found in the world around us.

Fogbow - Beinn Liath Mhor, Scotland

This article explores the enchanting world of fogbows, discussing their formation, unique characteristics, and the interplay of light and water droplets that bring them to life. It also highlights a captivating fogbow captured on Beinn Liath Mhor in Scotland, showcasing the ethereal colors, glories, and Brocken spectres that make fogbows a mesmerizing spectacle.

OPOD - Brocken Spectre

The article explores the Brocken Spectre, a ghostly optical phenomenon experienced by climbers on the summit of the Brocken mountain in Germany. It discusses the combination of two optical effects that create the apparition and highlights the ongoing fascination and scientific study of this mesmerizing atmospheric spectacle.

Coal-fired Rainbows

This article explores the origins and characteristics of coal-fired rainbows, a phenomenon created by the interaction of sunlight with soot and pollutants from coal-fired power plants. These captivating displays serve as a reminder of the environmental consequences of air pollution and the need for sustainable solutions.

Intense NLCs

The article explores the recent occurrence of intense Noctilucent Clouds (NLCs) over Europe, describing their mesmerizing brightness and vibrant colors. It highlights the unique characteristics and formation process of NLCs, emphasizing their impact on the visual landscape and the ongoing scientific inquiry into these celestial wonders.

OPOD - Parry & Flared Pillars

This article explores the rare atmospheric optics phenomenon known as Parry & Flared Pillars, which combines moon halos and light halos to create mesmerizing displays in the night sky. The alignment of ice crystals and their interaction with natural and artificial light sources contribute to the formation of these unique optical features.

Polarized Light Fogbow Moncayo Mountain, Spain

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of polarized light fogbows on Moncayo Mountain in Spain, showcasing their intricate patterns and vibrant colors. It delves into the science behind fogbows and the role of polarizing filters in capturing their ethereal beauty.

Not so ordinary sundog

This article explores the captivating and complex nature of sundogs, a frequently observed optical phenomenon in our skies. It delves into the scientific, cultural, and historical significance of sundogs, highlighting their vibrant colors, intricate formation, and their role in unraveling the mysteries of atmospheric physics.

OPOD - New Jersey Halos

This article explores a captivating display of atmospheric optics in New Jersey, featuring various halos and their formation through the interaction of sunlight with ice crystals. The display showcases the complexity and beauty of these phenomena, highlighting the importance of careful observation and analysis.

Victoria Falls Rainbows - OPOD

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of discontinuous rainbows at Victoria Falls, explaining their unique characteristics and the principles of atmospheric optics behind them. The author also highlights that similar rainbow effects can be observed from smaller water sources like lawn sprinklers, showcasing the universal fascination with rainbows.

Earth's Shadow

The article explores the captivating phenomenon of Earth's Shadow, which occurs during twilight when the Earth casts a shadow into the atmosphere, creating a distinct dark blue band near the horizon opposite the sun. Accompanying Earth's Shadow is the enchanting Belt of Venus, a rosy pink glow above the dark blue band, created by backscattered sunlight and the deep blue color of the sky.

Today's Feature - Diamond Dust Display

This article explores the captivating beauty of diamond dust displays, where shimmering ice crystals create distinct halos and arcs in the atmosphere. The interplay of different crystal shapes and orientations leads to mesmerizing optical phenomena, showcasing the intricate interactions within our everyday surroundings.

Hoar Frost Crystals

This article explores the formation, structure, and enchanting beauty of hoar frost crystals, which adorn winter landscapes with their delicate and intricate designs. It delves into the processes of deposition, sublimation, and interaction with supercooled water droplets that contribute to the growth and iridescence of these crystalline masterpieces.

OPOD - Fogbow, Greenland

This article explores the captivating optical phenomenon of fogbows, with a specific focus on a stunning example observed over the 'Big House' at Summit Station in Greenland. Delve into the world of fogbows and unravel the secrets behind their ethereal beauty.

Night Halos, Finland - OPOD

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of night halos in Finland, showcasing the stunning images captured by Jari Luomanen and the unique features of these optical displays. From the mysterious Moilanen arc to artificial light-generated helic arcs, Finland's night skies come alive with enchanting halos.

Sea Spray Bows

Sea spray bows, smaller in size compared to rainbows, are a captivating display of nature's brilliance caused by the stronger refraction of light in saltwater. These coastal wonders require specific conditions to occur and exhibit unique color variations, setting them apart from rainwater rainbows.

A solidity of Rays, Crepuscular Rays, Australia - OPOD

This article explores the mesmerizing and solid nature of crepuscular rays, also known as sunbeams or god rays, focusing on two captivating images captured in Australia. Delving into their formation process and unique characteristics, it showcases the enchanting dance of light and shadow that these rays create in the atmosphere.

Pileus Cloud Iridescence, Singapore

This article explores the mesmerizing world of pileus cloud iridescence, showcasing the delicate display of colors in Singapore's sky and delving into the science behind this enchanting phenomenon.

Lower Sun Pillars & Subsuns

This article explores the formation, ideal viewing conditions, and showcases stunning images of lower sun pillars and subsuns, enchanting atmospheric phenomena created when the sun's rays reflect off ice crystals.

9° Circular Halo

This article explores the formation and science behind the 9° circular halo, a captivating optical effect seen as a circular ring around the Sun or Moon, often accompanied by a fainter 18° halo. It delves into the intricate process involving ice crystals, sunlight interaction, scattering and diffraction, colorful displays, atmospheric conditions, and variations that contribute to this mesmerizing phenomenon.