Articles About Atmospheric Science, Meteorology, and Climatology

OPOD - Eclipse Shadows

This article explores the fascinating phenomenon of eclipse shadows and how they transform during a solar eclipse, showcasing the interplay between light and shadow in captivating and mesmerizing ways.

OPOD - Mountain Shadow Spikes, Kilimanjaro

This article explores the fascinating phenomenon of dark spikes radiating upwards from the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro, providing insight into the three-dimensional nature of mountain shadows and the opposition effect glow. Through captivating images captured by Miguel de Olaso, Macgregor, we gain a glimpse into the enchanting world of atmospheric optics.

TiltingSun software - Download

Learn about the TiltingSun software, a powerful tool for simulating and visualizing atmospheric optical phenomena such as halos, rainbows, and glories. This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to download and install the software on a Windows computer.

Corona - OPOD

This article explores the fascinating optical phenomenon of coronas, which occur when light is diffracted through small particles in the atmosphere, resulting in a beautiful display of rainbow colors encircling the Sun or Moon. The article discusses how a photographer captured an incredible corona image and how studying coronas provides valuable insights into atmospheric physics and weather forecasting.

Glove hair corona - OPOD

This article explores the unexpected atmospheric phenomenon of the glove hair corona, which was accidentally discovered by Monika Landy-Gyebnar in Hungary. Through experimentation, it is revealed that the fine hairs on a knitted glove can create a stunning corona effect through diffraction of light.

Lake Ladoga Fogbow

This article explores the captivating beauty and unique characteristics of the fogbow phenomenon observed on Lake Ladoga in Northwestern Russia, offering a glimpse into the historical significance of the region and the marvels of atmospheric optics.

Moonlight CZA

This article explores the formation, colors, and rarity of the Moonlight Circumzenithal Arc, a breathtaking optical display created by moonlight interacting with ice crystals in the Earth's atmosphere. It delves into the unique prism effect that gives rise to vibrant hues and highlights the challenges of photographing this enchanting phenomenon.

Antisolar (crepuscular) rays, Cornwall, England - OPOD

This article explores the phenomenon of antisolar rays, or anticrepuscular rays, in the skies of Cornwall, England. It delves into their characteristics, occurrence, and the underlying physics that create these captivating celestial displays.

Inferior Mirage Green Flash

This article explores the phenomenon of inferior mirage green flashes, which occur during sunset when warm air above the ocean causes the sun's rays to be reflected upwards, creating an inverted image of the sun beneath the actual one. It delves into the mechanics behind this optical phenomenon and provides resources for further exploration.

Ship Wake Reflections - OPOD

This article explores the optical phenomenon of ship wake reflections, explaining the science behind the visual effects created by the curvature of the water's surface and the interplay between light and water. It also discusses how similar reflections can be observed in sky pools, highlighting the role of perception and the hidden beauty beneath the surface.

OPOD - Season of mists and fogbows

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of fogbows, ethereal arcs of light that form when sunlight scatters through water droplets in fog or mist. It delves into the science behind their formation and discusses the optimal conditions for observing these mesmerizing displays of light.

Halo & Contrail

This article explores the fascinating atmospheric optics phenomenon of halo and contrail, including the unique characteristics of the upper tangent arc and the rarer Parry arc. It also highlights the interaction between contrails and halos, creating stunning visual effects in the sky.

46° Halo

The article discusses the rare and breathtaking 46° halo, a large and colorful optical phenomenon that stretches across the sky. It provides information on how to distinguish the 46° halo from similar halos and highlights the use of ray trace simulations to visualize these atmospheric phenomena.

OPOD - Noctilucent Clouds

This article explores the fascinating phenomenon of noctilucent clouds, Earth's highest clouds that can be observed from mid-May to mid-August. It delves into their composition, formation, altitude, temperature requirements, seasonality, and global distribution, highlighting their beauty and contribution to our understanding of Earth's atmosphere.

Death Valley Mirage - OPOD

This article explores the Death Valley Mirage, an inferior mirage that creates the illusion of reflections on water in the scorching heat of Death Valley National Park. It delves into the multiple images and characteristics of the mirage, offering insights into the complex interplay between temperature gradients and light refraction.

More dust, but not volcanic

This article explores the phenomenon of Quetelet rings, which are multi-colored fringes observed on dusty windows and mirrors, as well as calm water surfaces laden with pollen, dust, or algae. It delves into the science behind their formation and discusses the sources of the particles that contribute to their creation.

OPOD - Eclipse Optics, Shadow Bands

This article explores the captivating atmospheric optics observed during the recent Australian solar eclipse, including iridescence and rare shadow bands. The images captured during the event offer a glimpse into the mesmerizing phenomena that occur during an eclipse.

1st August Halos

The article explores the mesmerizing 1st August halos, showcasing the beauty and complexity of atmospheric optics phenomena through captivating images and scientific insights. These halos provide a glimpse into the interplay between light and particles in our atmosphere, inspiring a deeper appreciation for the wonders that surround us.

22 Degree Halo,22º Halo, 22º Circular Halo

The article explores the characteristics, visibility, and misconceptions surrounding the mesmerizing 22-degree halo, a stunning circular halo created by ice crystals in cirrostratus clouds. It also provides safety precautions for observing the halo and emphasizes the importance of eye protection.

Aurora ~ Tromsø

This article explores the science behind the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis in Tromsø, Norway, and why it is an ideal location for witnessing this breathtaking natural phenomenon. It delves into the interaction between particles from the sun, Earth's magnetosphere, and the atmosphere, resulting in the captivating dance of colors in the night sky.