Articles About Atmospheric Science, Meteorology, and Climatology

OPOD - Miraged Sun, California

This article explores the fascinating phenomenon of miraged suns, particularly in California, where the unique geographic features contribute to their formation. It also emphasizes the importance of accurate documentation and skepticism when encountering sightings of multiple suns, as they are often visual distortions or artifacts caused by external factors.

OPOD - Alaska Iridescence

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of iridescence, with a focus on the breathtaking display captured in Alaska by photographer Doug Short. It delves into the science behind iridescence, highlighting the interplay between light and droplets or particles that creates a mesmerizing dance of ever-changing colors in the sky.

Mystery Twinned Rainbow

This article explores the enigmatic phenomenon of twinned rainbows, delving into their characteristics, possible causes, and the need for further research. It emphasizes the importance of photographs and observations from atmospheric optics enthusiasts in unraveling the secrets of twinned rainbows and deepening our understanding of their complex interplay of light, water droplets, and atmospheric conditions.

rare halos over Switzerland

This article explores the mesmerizing display of rare halos observed in the skies over Switzerland, including the elusive diamond dust halo and the rarely seen 46° halo. It delves into the scientific explanations behind these enchanting atmospheric phenomena and discusses the role of snow cannons in their visibility.

Omega, "Etruscan Vase" sunset

The article explores the captivating phenomenon of Omega or "Etruscan Vase" sunsets, where an inverted image of the sun's lower limb rises out of the waves, accompanied by a noticeable reddened stem or red flash. It delves into the principles of atmospheric optics, including the scattering of sunlight and the formation of mirages, to provide a deeper understanding of these mesmerizing displays.

OPOD - Greenland Glory

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of the Greenland Glory, a series of concentric rings encircling the shadow of an observer, shedding light on its origins, characteristics, and the conditions under which it occurs. It delves into the interplay between temperature and purity in creating an ideal environment for the formation of glories and fogbows, and highlights the challenge of understanding the intricate physics behind these ethereal displays.

Very rare Swedish Halos

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of Very Rare Swedish Halos, showcasing their unique characteristics and providing tips for capturing their beauty through photography. Witnessing these stunning optical displays reminds us of the intricate interplay between light and atmospheric conditions.

Iowa rays

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of "Iowa rays," or anticrepuscular rays, which are parallel rays that converge in the distance and create a breathtaking display in the sky. Factors such as volcanic eruptions and atmospheric conditions contribute to the occurrence of these mesmerizing rays.

Road Blink & Mirage, Idaho - OPOD

This article explores the captivating optical phenomenon known as Road Blink & Mirage, focusing on a photograph captured in Idaho, USA. It delves into the intricate details and scientific explanations behind this mesmerizing illusion.

Abalone Shell Iridescence

This article explores the scientific principles behind the mesmerizing iridescence of abalone shells and the ongoing research in this field, revealing how the colors are intricately linked to the structure of the shell's surface. Scientists continue to study the physical structures and optical properties of shells, challenging existing theories and inspiring attempts to replicate them.

Cloud Iridescence - OPOD

Cloud iridescence is a mesmerizing phenomenon caused by the diffraction of sunlight by individual water droplets within clouds, resulting in a dynamic display of vibrant colors. This article explores the science behind cloud iridescence and highlights the ideal conditions and unpredictable nature of this captivating natural spectacle.

Rainbows, Iguazu Falls Falls, Brazil/Argentina

This article explores the awe-inspiring beauty of rainbows at Iguazu Falls in Brazil and Argentina, where the misty spray from the cascading waters creates the perfect conditions for these colorful arcs of light to appear. It also discusses other atmospheric optics phenomena at the falls and emphasizes the importance of conservation efforts to protect this natural wonder.

Moonbow Challenge - 4 days 6 hours

This article explores the rare and captivating phenomenon of moonbows and the challenge photographers face in capturing them on camera. It discusses the conditions necessary for moonbows to occur and offers tips for photographing these elusive rainbows of the night sky.

OPOD - Parry Arcs at High Sun

This article discusses the rare atmospheric optical phenomenon known as the Parry arc, which can be observed when cirrus clouds thicken around noon. The article explores the different types of Parry arcs and their appearance at high sun, providing insights into the specific atmospheric conditions required for their occurrence.

Pancake Sunset - S.Pedro de Moel, Portugal

The article explores the mesmerizing Pancake Sunset phenomenon in S.Pedro de Moel, Portugal, showcasing the complex arrangement of inverted images of the sun caused by multiple inversion layers interacting with sunlight. It delves into the science behind this captivating spectacle, highlighting the role of temperature inversions, wave interactions, and geographical features in creating these stunning optical phenomena.

Caustic petals

This article explores the mesmerizing optical phenomenon of caustic petals, which are intricate patterns formed when the surface of water is distorted by flowers, creating brilliant caustic curves. It delves into the concept of surface tension and the interplay of light and water that gives rise to these breathtaking visual displays.

Airy Rainbow Simulator

The article discusses the Airy Rainbow Simulator, a tool that allows for a comprehensive analysis of rainbow formation and intensities by utilizing Airy functions and efficient computation methods. It highlights the advantages and limitations of the simulator in studying the physics of rainbows and its use of color models for realistic representations.

Light Pillars & Moondogs, Eastern Siberia - OPOD

This article explores the mesmerizing atmospheric phenomena of light pillars and moondogs captured in Eastern Siberia, showcasing the enchanting illusions created by ice crystals reflecting ground lights and the celestial companions that accompany the moon.

Circumzenithal Arc Gallery

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of the Circumzenithal Arc, also known as the "upside-down rainbow," and its mesmerizing gallery of celestial wonders, showcasing breathtaking photographs from around the world. Discover the delicate dance of light and ice that creates this ephemeral and fleeting atmospheric spectacle.

Volcanic Glory

This article explores the captivating optical phenomenon known as "Volcanic Glory," where water droplets interact with sunlight to create a mesmerizing glow. It delves into the science behind this phenomenon and offers tips on how to witness it firsthand.