Articles About Atmospheric Science, Meteorology, and Climatology

Montana Fogbow

The article explores the unique features and characteristics of the Montana Fogbow, a ghostly and ethereal atmospheric phenomenon created by mist droplets. It delves into the scientific explanation behind its formation and highlights the differences between fogbows and rainbows.

Iridescent Clouds

This article explores the science behind iridescent clouds, discussing their formation, different types, and factors that affect their visibility. It also provides tips for capturing the beauty of iridescent clouds through photography.

Montana Fogbow

This article explores the mesmerizing Montana Fogbow, a rare and captivating atmospheric phenomenon similar to a rainbow, known for its distinct dark band and faint secondary fogbow. It delves into the formation, unique characteristics, and the enchanting beauty of this extraordinary natural display.

More NLCs!

The article discusses the increase in sightings of Noctilucent clouds (NLCs), a fascinating atmospheric phenomenon composed of ice crystals that can only be seen during twilight hours. It explores possible reasons for the surge in NLC appearances and highlights the importance of contributing observations to scientific databases for further study.

Bolivia Antisolar (anticrepuscular) rays - OPOD

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of Bolivia Antisolar Rays, an optical illusion created by the interplay of light and shadow in the sky. It discusses the formation and visual impact of these rays, as well as offers photography tips for capturing their ethereal beauty.

Pollen Corona

This article explores the mesmerizing beauty and scientific significance of pollen coronae, which are created by the diffraction of light through uniform pollen grains, resulting in a stunning display of undiluted colors in the sky. It also highlights the limitations of water droplets in creating coronae and discusses how photographers and scientists alike are captivated by these ethereal atmospheric phenomena.

Nacreous Clouds Norway 31st January 2005

This article explores the rare and stunning phenomenon of nacreous clouds, also known as polar stratospheric clouds, that appeared in the sky over Southern Norway on January 31st, 2005. The article discusses the unique composition and conditions required for the formation of these vibrant and ethereal clouds, as well as their significance in studying atmospheric dynamics and climate patterns.

Red Rainbows - Orkney, Scotland

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of red rainbows, which can be seen in Orkney, Scotland and other parts of the world. It delves into the science behind red rainbows and showcases stunning photographs capturing their rare and enchanting beauty.

Tangent arc gallery

This article explores the mesmerizing tangent arc gallery, delving into its characteristics, formation, and where it can be observed. From captivating sightings in Girdwood, Alaska to HaloSim simulations, this article unveils the magic and beauty of this elusive atmospheric optical phenomenon.

Balloon Glory

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of balloon glories, which combine the surreal sight of a balloon shadow with a vibrant halo of colors. It delves into the science behind glories and explains how balloonists can use them to identify their own shadow amidst a cluster of balloon shadows.

Moments in the life of a circumzenithal arc

This article explores the ephemeral and captivating nature of circumzenithal arcs, showcasing their fleeting appearance and vibrant colors. It highlights the role of cirrus clouds and plate crystals in creating these arcs and emphasizes their transience near the zenith.

White Parhelia

This article explores the formation, characteristics, and rarity of white parhelia, a lesser-known atmospheric phenomenon that lacks distinct colors and is often mistaken for clouds. It highlights the need for continued research and observation to unravel the mysteries surrounding these captivating natural phenomena.

Alamut, Iran, light pillars

This article explores the mesmerizing phenomenon of light pillars in Alamut, Iran, where plate-like ice crystals reflect distant ground lights, creating the illusion of vertical pillars of light piercing through the clouds. It showcases the captivating beauty of nature's artistry and reminds us of the wonders that await us if we take the time to appreciate the marvels of our atmosphere.

Jovian Halos

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of Jovian halos in Jupiter's turbulent atmosphere, shedding light on their formation and potential similarities to other celestial bodies. It delves into the intricate workings of Jupiter's atmospheric dynamics and the interconnectedness of atmospheric phenomena across different planets, offering a deeper appreciation for the wonders beyond our own planet's atmosphere.

Reflection Caustics

This article explores the phenomenon of reflection caustics, which are sharp white patterns formed when sunlight reflects off the undulating surface of the sea. It also discusses the presence of skypools, concave patches on the water's surface that reflect the sky and surrounding harbor, adding depth and dimension to the composition.

OPOD - Hehuanshan Brocken

The article explores the mesmerizing Hehuanshan Brocken Spectre and Glory, an atmospheric phenomenon that occurs when sunlight intersects with mist or fog on a mountain. It delves into the key elements that contribute to this captivating display, highlighting its scientific significance and photography opportunities.

Lunar Circumscribed Halo

This article explores the mesmerizing phenomenon of the lunar circumscribed halo, a rare and enchanting sight that occurs when the Moon is encircled by a tightly wrapped halo formed by the interaction of light with ice crystals in high-altitude cirrus clouds. It delves into the science behind its formation and highlights the accompanying 22º halo and faint paraselenic circle, inviting readers to marvel at the wonders of atmospheric optics.

OPOD - Multiple Image Mirage

This article explores the fascinating phenomenon of multiple image mirages, challenging our expectations of mirage formations and providing insights into their origins through a topological approach. Through photographs captured in Finland, the complexity and diversity of these mirages are revealed, inviting further exploration into the enigmatic world of atmospheric optics.

Rock Pool Corona - OPOD

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of the Rock Pool Corona, a mesmerizing atmospheric optics event generated by diffraction at the surface of a rock pool. Scattering and diffraction caused by small objects, such as algae, result in a corona with distinct rings and colors, showcasing the intricate beauty of nature's optical displays.

OPOD - Avebury Halos

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of halos observed at the Avebury stone circle in England, where ice crystals in the atmosphere create stunning displays of colors and shapes. Photographers have captured these mesmerizing halos, immortalizing their beauty and inviting contemplation of the harmonious convergence of human history and natural wonders.