Articles About Atmospheric Science, Meteorology, and Climatology

OPOD - Refreshing Atmospheric Optics

This article explores the fascinating world of atmospheric optics, delving into the mysteries behind captivating sky phenomena such as halos, sundogs, and green flashes. It also highlights a treasure trove of sky-themed drinks to enjoy while admiring the celestial spectacle.

Bifrost and unweaving the rainbow

This article explores the intricate elements of Bifrost and the rainbow, deepening our understanding and appreciation for their marvels. Through stunning photography and detailed explanations, it reveals the complexity and beauty of these natural phenomena.

OPOD - Moonbow, New Zealand

This article explores the rare and mesmerizing phenomenon of moonbows, focusing on the potential sightings in New Zealand. It discusses the specific conditions required for moonbows to occur and highlights the ethereal beauty of these celestial rainbows.

Glory in the grass

This article explores the rare atmospheric phenomenon of a glory forming above a misty grassy landscape, delving into the science behind its formation and emphasizing the beauty and wonder of this captivating optical illusion.

CHA or Infralateral

This article explores the differences between the circumhorizon arc (CHA) and the infralateral arc, two stunning optical phenomena created by sunlight interacting with ice crystals in the atmosphere. It discusses their distinct characteristics and the challenge of differentiating between them, while emphasizing the awe-inspiring beauty of observing both arcs simultaneously.

OPOD - Fogbow, Indonesia

The article explores the rare atmospheric phenomenon of a fogbow in Indonesia's Mt. Bromo National Park, capturing stunning images of the fogbow and other atmospheric phenomena. The interplay between volcanic activity, fog conditions, and ideal droplet size creates an ethereal display of light and color.

Primary & seconday cloudbow and supernumeraries

This article explores the fascinating world of primary and secondary cloudbows, as well as the intriguing phenomenon of supernumeraries, offering a closer look at these atmospheric optics phenomena. It delves into the science behind their formation and provides tips on how to observe and photograph them.

Scientific Revolution and Enlightenment Halos

This article explores the historical journey of scientific discoveries and theories surrounding halos, from Descartes' ice crystal theory to Huygens' revolutionary model, Mariotte's prism theory, Newton's enigmatic manuscript, and Young's breakthrough with hexagonal prisms. The contributions of these brilliant minds during the Scientific Revolution and The Enlightenment laid the foundation for our understanding of atmospheric optics.

Supralateral & Infralateral Arcs

This article explores the formation, characteristics, and differentiation of supralateral and infralateral arcs, captivating atmospheric optics phenomena that exhibit vibrant colors and dynamic shapes in the sky. It also discusses the challenge of distinguishing supralateral arcs from the 46° halo and emphasizes the importance of considering solar altitude in observation.

Airglow Formation

This article explores the formation of airglow, a captivating phenomenon that illuminates the night sky with a subtle glow, by delving into its components, relationship with aurorae, and factors influencing its intensity and variability. Through the excitation and emission of atoms and molecules in Earth's upper atmosphere, airglow adds a touch of mystique to our night sky, providing valuable insights into the composition and dynamics of Earth's atmosphere.

OPOD - Baltic Mirage

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of the Baltic Mirage, revealing the science behind its mesmerizing optical illusions and suspended objects over the sea. It delves into the mirroring effect observed on ships and the refraction of light that creates the illusion of reflections and invisible details below the mirage's vanishing line.

Balloon Ducted Mock-Mirage Sunset

This article explores the phenomenon of balloon ducted mock-mirage sunsets, unraveling the science behind their formation and showcasing their visual allure for photographers and sky enthusiasts. It serves as a reminder of nature's splendor and invites readers to appreciate the hidden magic within breathtaking sunsets.

OPOD - Rainbow Disk

This article explores the hidden secrets of rainbows, revealing that they are not just simple rings of light but rather disk-shaped structures that extend from our eyes to the raindrops within a cone shape. Through careful observation and analysis, photographers have captured the mesmerizing features of rainbows, showcasing their true complexity and variations in color intensity.

Ohio Elliptical Halo

This article explores the rare and mysterious atmospheric phenomenon known as the Ohio Elliptical Halo, capturing its captivating beauty and delving into the scientific puzzle of its formation. Through keen observation and ongoing research, scientists strive to unravel the secrets behind these mesmerizing optical displays in the sky.

OPOD - Jupiter Corona

This article explores the captivating optical phenomenon of the Jupiter Corona, which occurs when light is scattered by small water droplets in our atmosphere, resulting in unique rings surrounding celestial bodies like Jupiter. It delves into the science behind the formation of coronas and suggests the possibility of similar phenomena in other parts of the universe.

Eyjafjallajokull Skies

This article explores the unique atmospheric optics observed during the eruption of the Eyjafjallajokull volcano, including the absence of contrails and the subdued sunsets and twilights caused by the presence of volcanic ash. It also discusses the formation of Bishop's Rings and the impact on sunrise, showcasing the captivating wonders of our planet's atmospheric dynamics.

OPOD - Protractor Strains

This article explores how birefringence reveals hidden strains in plastic objects and how to observe these patterns using polarized light. By illuminating plastic objects with polarized light and viewing them through a second polarizer, mesmerizing multicolor patterns emerge, providing insights into the distribution of stresses within materials.

Flag 'Corona'- OPOD

This article explores the optical phenomenon behind the flag 'corona' and reveals that the captivating colors are caused by fine filaments in the fabric scattering light. Understanding this phenomenon has implications for developing innovative materials and technologies.

Nacreous Clouds Norway 31st January 2005

This article explores the mesmerizing display of nacreous clouds over Norway on January 31st, 2005, showcasing their vibrant colors and intricate patterns. It also discusses the scientific significance of these rare atmospheric phenomena and their implications for climate.

OPOD - Lowitz Arcs in UK

The article explores the rare sighting of Lowitz arcs in the UK and delves into their distinct characteristics and the challenges of capturing their beauty through photography. It highlights the allure and mystery surrounding these elusive atmospheric optics phenomena.