Articles About Atmospheric Science, Meteorology, and Climatology

Coffee Filter Iridescence

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of coffee filter iridescence, discussing its causes, characteristics, and comparisons to other iridescent phenomena. It highlights the beauty and complexity of this natural spectacle and its applications in studying structural coloration and developing new technologies.

Diffraction through a mesh curtain - OPOD

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of diffraction through a mesh curtain, revealing the intricate patterns and colors created by the interaction of light waves. From the spread of vibrant spectra to the wavelength-dependent nature of diffraction, this article uncovers the hidden secrets of light.

Sun pillar

This article explores the science behind sun pillars, a captivating atmospheric optical phenomenon created by sunlight reflecting off ice crystals in the atmosphere. It delves into the factors that contribute to their formation and provides tips on photographing these mesmerizing pillars of light.

Halos, The Myth of Ixion

This article explores the fascinating theory that the Greek myth of Ixion's punishment may be connected to the 22° halo, a captivating optical phenomenon. The author presents compelling evidence to support this hypothesis and delves into the enigmatic absence of halos in Ancient Greek mythology.

Netherlands Parhelic Circle

This article explores the elusive Netherlands Parhelic Circle, a colorless atmospheric optics phenomenon that forms at the same altitude as the sun and can be challenging to spot against a cloudy backdrop. It delves into the unique formation and characteristics of this mesmerizing ring, shedding light on its elusive nature.

OPOD - Greenland Ice Cap

This article explores the mesmerizing atmospheric optics phenomena observed over the Greenland Ice Cap, showcasing delicate rings of light, whirling dances of light, celestial twins flanking the sun, and other captivating displays created by the interaction of sunlight with ice crystals in the atmosphere.

Camera and Art, Indonesia

This article explores the connection between camera lenses and the world of art, focusing on atmospheric optics in Indonesia's skies, showcasing the beauty of rainbows and towering cumulonimbus clouds through photography and painting. The interplay between photography and painting allows us to capture and appreciate the ethereal beauty of Indonesia's skies, from stunning rainbow vistas to towering cumulonimbus clouds.

Crosswalk Glows

This article explores the fascinating phenomenon of crosswalk glows, also known as opposition glows, and uncovers the various causes behind their formation, including dewdrop lenses, shadow hiding, coherent backscatter, and retroreflection. Additionally, it discusses the captivating glory that often accompanies crosswalk glows and offers tips for observing and appreciating these mesmerizing displays of atmospheric optics.

OPOD - Norwegian Sundog

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of sundogs, optical displays created when sunlight refracts through hexagonal ice crystals. It delves into the mechanics behind sundogs and reveals additional atmospheric optical phenomena that can accompany them, providing a deeper understanding and appreciation for these mesmerizing displays.

Florida Halo Display

The article explores the captivating Florida Halo Display, a stunning atmospheric phenomenon caused by sunlight interacting with ice crystals in the atmosphere, resulting in vibrant halos, arcs, and circles. It discusses the variety of optical wonders that can be observed, including rare Lowitz arcs, and highlights the role of contrails and the unique characteristics of ice crystals in the formation of these mesmerizing displays.

Waterborne Dewbow

This article explores the rare phenomenon of waterborne dewbows, which occur when sunlight is refracted and reflected by water droplets over bodies of water. Atmospheric optics expert Marko Riikonen captured a unique sighting of a waterborne dewbow on a lake in Finland, providing valuable insights into its formation and showcasing the beauty of this mesmerizing spectacle.

Below Horizon Bow

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of the Below Horizon Bow, a rare optical occurrence where a circular arc of colors appears below the horizon line. It delves into the science behind its formation and discusses additional factors that can influence its appearance.

Transparent Glories

This article explores the formation and science behind transparent glories, mesmerizing optical phenomena created through a combination of light scattering and diffraction. It delves into the intricate beauty of these atmospheric phenomena and the factors that contribute to their appearance.

Meall Corranaich, Scotland Glory

This article explores the captivating atmospheric phenomenon known as a glory, specifically observed from Meall Corranaich in Scotland. Through stunning images and an explanation of the science behind glories, readers are invited to appreciate the beauty and complexity of nature's artistic touch.

New Jersey Anticrepuscular Display

This article explores the captivating atmospheric phenomenon known as the "New Jersey Anticrepuscular Display," where shadows cast by clouds during low sun conditions create a mesmerizing convergence effect in the sky. Witnessing and capturing the beauty of this spectacle is a truly remarkable experience for nature enthusiasts and photography aficionados alike.

OPOD - Many Coloured Venus

The article explores the phenomenon of atmospheric refraction, specifically how it causes objects near the horizon, such as Venus, to appear higher in the sky than they actually are. It also discusses the color separation that occurs due to varying degrees of refraction, resulting in vibrant hues like green and blue rims around celestial objects.

Road Bow

This article explores the phenomenon of "road bows," which are created by small glass beads on the surface of bricks or pavement and produce a mesmerizing rainbow-like sight. The article delves into the science behind road bows, discussing the refraction of light through the glass beads and how it creates a unique width for each bow.

Coronal Sun

This article explores the phenomenon of the coronal sun, a captivating atmospheric optics display created by the diffraction of light through water droplets in thin cloud or mist. It delves into the science behind its formation and provides tips for observing this mesmerizing spectacle.

Boomerang Optics

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of boomerang optics, including the mesmerizing boomerang rainbow and other related atmospheric phenomena. It delves into the science behind these optical wonders and provides a glimpse into the beauty and complexity of our natural environment.

Cloud Shadows ~ Rays

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of cloud shadows and rays, delving into the science behind their formation and the mesmerizing visual effects they create in the sky during sunrise or sunset. It highlights the parallel alignment of the shadow columns and the convergence illusion towards the sun, making them a captivating spectacle to witness.