OPOD - Waves & Corona

Last updated on September 16, 2023

OPOD - Waves & Corona: A Captivating Atmospheric Phenomenon

Have you ever marveled at the breathtaking beauty of a corona, with its perfectly formed rings and ethereal iridescence? In this article, we delve into the captivating world of corona and wave clouds, exploring the mesmerizing interplay between diffraction, atmospheric wave motion, and water droplets.

The Enigmatic Four-Ringed Corona

One particular photograph showcases a remarkably perfect four-ringed corona, seemingly overlain by translucent, iridescent films of cloud. This extraordinary display is a result of diffraction by water droplets of exceptionally uniform sizes. The source of these droplets? Wave clouds.

Unraveling the Mysteries of Wave Clouds

Wave clouds, often induced by the presence of mountains, set the stage for the formation of these uniform-sized water droplets. The motion of the atmosphere caused by the mountains leads to pockets of air rising and falling in rapid succession, sometimes within a matter of seconds. As the air rises, it expands and cools. If the air is sufficiently moist, condensation occurs, giving birth to small droplets. Subsequently, as the air pocket descends, the droplets evaporate.

A Symphony of Colors Unveiled

Within a particular section of the cloud, all the droplets share a similar history and are uniformly sized. When light encounters these droplets, diffraction occurs, resulting in a mesmerizing display of colors. The process of diffraction involves the bending and spreading of light as it interacts with the tiny water droplets. The result is a splendid array of hues that grace our skies and captivate our senses.

A Visual Journey Through Images

Accompanying this article are several stunning images that allow us to witness this enchanting phenomenon firsthand. Each photograph showcases the intricate details of the corona and the delicate films of cloud that add a touch of ethereal beauty to the scene. These images serve as a testament to the wonders of our atmosphere and the intricate interplay between light, water droplets, and atmospheric motion.

Appreciating the Complexity of Nature

The phenomenon of corona and wave clouds reminds us of the complexity and interconnectedness of the natural world. From the majestic mountains that induce atmospheric wave motion to the precise formation of uniform-sized water droplets, each element plays a crucial role in creating these awe-inspiring displays. It is a reminder of the delicate balance that exists within our atmosphere and the beauty that arises from its harmonious dance.

Capturing Nature's Masterpieces

The photographer, Hermann Scheer, skillfully captured these fleeting moments of atmospheric brilliance from the Sonnblick Observatory, perched at an altitude of 3100m in the Austrian Alps. Through his lens, we are transported to a world where nature's masterpieces unfold before our eyes, inviting us to appreciate the wonders that surround us.

Conclusion

The captivating combination of corona and wave clouds is a testament to the intricate beauty that lies within our atmosphere. From the uniform-sized water droplets to the diffraction of light, each element contributes to the creation of these mesmerizing displays. Let us continue to marvel at the wonders of nature and cherish the fleeting moments when our skies are transformed into breathtaking canvases of color and light.

Corona & Wave Clouds

A corona and filmy iridescence light shifting f�hn wave clouds. Hermann Scheer (site) took this series of evocative images from the Sonnblick Observatory at an altitude of 3100m in the Austrian Alps. ©Hermann Scheer, shown with permission.

Here we see a remarkably perfect four ringed corona at times apparently overlain by see-through iridescent films of cloud.

A four ringed corona signals diffraction by water droplets with exceptionally uniform sizes. Wave clouds are the source of the droplets.

The atmospheric wave motion, likely induced by the mountains, causes air pockets to rise and fall over a period often of only a few seconds. Rising air expands and cools. If the air is sufficiently moist condensation occurs into small droplets. The air pocket then descends again and the droplets evaporate.

In any one section of cloud the droplets all have the same short history and are uniform sized. Diffraction from them produces the wonderful colours imaged here.

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