Articles About Atmospheric Science, Meteorology, and Climatology

OPOD - Prism HD for iPad

Explore the fascinating world of atmospheric optics with the "Prism HD" app for iPad and iPhone. Delve into the secrets behind rainbows, sundogs, and circumzenithal arcs with just a touch of your finger.

OPOD - Coloured Clouds, Poland

The article explores the phenomenon of colored clouds observed in Poland, showcasing the interplay between light, ice crystals, and cloud formations. The captivating display of vivid hues and horizontal parallel patterns serves as a reminder of the beauty and complexity of our atmosphere.

OPOD - Deceptive Ray, Melbourne, Australia

The article explores the captivating optical phenomenon known as the "Deceptive Red Ray" observed in Melbourne, Australia, where a red beam of light appears to shoot up from the Eureka Tower. Through the interplay of sunlight, reflection, and architectural design, this illusion creates a mesmerizing visual experience that challenges our perception of reality.

OPOD - Anticrepuscular Whales?

This article explores the fascinating phenomenon of anticrepuscular rays underwater, specifically their convergence towards whales. It highlights the mesmerizing visual effects created by caustic sheets of light and their significance in understanding marine life behavior.

Lower sun pillar and subsun

This article explores the formation and science behind the lower sun pillar and subsun, two captivating atmospheric optical phenomena that occur when sunlight interacts with ice crystals suspended in the atmosphere. It also discusses the ideal atmospheric conditions for observing these phenomena and offers tips for capturing their beauty through photography.

3rd order rainbow - OPOD

This article explores the formation, appearance, and challenges of capturing the elusive third order rainbow, also known as the tertiary rainbow. It highlights the work of Michael Großmann, who has successfully photographed the third order rainbow and also captured the primary and secondary rainbows.

Nacreous clouds from high altitude

This article explores the mesmerizing world of nacreous clouds, discussing their formation, vibrant colors, and scientific significance in providing insights into atmospheric dynamics and chemistry. It also provides tips for observing these captivating clouds in polar regions during winter months.

Is the CHA rare?

This article explores the rarity of the circumhorizon arc, an atmospheric optical phenomenon, and how its occurrence depends on factors such as geographical location and the position of the sun. It discusses how some places have limited opportunities to witness this phenomenon while others have more frequent sightings.

Kitchen optics ~ Structural Colour

This article explores the fascinating world of structural color, from the vibrant hues of soap bubbles to the iridescence of butterfly wings. It delves into the science behind these optical phenomena and highlights their intricate beauty and complexity.

OPOD - Diamond Dust, Poland

The article explores the captivating phenomenon of diamond dust in Poland, showcasing stunning images of crystal halos floating in the air. It highlights the rarity and specific conditions required for the formation of diamond dust, reminding us of the wonders that exist within our atmosphere.

OPOD - Lowitz Display, Georgia, USA

The article explores the rare atmospheric phenomenon known as the Lowitz Display, featuring a series of optical phenomena including sundogs, a 22° halo, and upper Lowitz arcs. Through photography and scientific exploration, the article delves into the enigmatic science behind these captivating atmospheric displays.

OPOD - 1985 Finland 24 degree column arcs

The article discusses the rare atmospheric phenomenon of 24° column arcs captured in Finland in 1985, highlighting the unique characteristics of these odd-radius column arcs and their formation. The captivating images and scientific explanation provided shed light on the intricate nature of atmospheric optics.

Nacreous Clouds - Luleå, Northern Sweden

This article explores the mesmerizing phenomenon of nacreous clouds, also known as mother-of-pearl clouds, which occur in the stratosphere and continue to catch the sun's rays even after sunset. It showcases a stunning image captured in Luleå, Northern Sweden, offering a rare glimpse into the intricate patterns and formations of these high-altitude clouds.

Sunset Parry & Tangent Arcs, The Netherlands - OPOD

This article explores the formation and visual beauty of sunset Parry and tangent arcs observed in the Netherlands, showcasing stunning photographs of the phenomenon. It serves as a reminder to appreciate the wonders of nature and provides tips for observing atmospheric optics phenomena.

Changing Shadows

This article explores the fascinating phenomenon of changing shadows and delves into the science behind this captivating interplay between light and darkness in the atmosphere. It also discusses the enigmatic ringed glory and the role of droplet size in its formation.

Greek Halos - OPOD

This article explores the ancient Greek philosophers' understanding of halos and rainbows, showcasing their accurate explanation of these phenomena as scattering and reflection by objects in the atmosphere. It also highlights the captivating geometric patterns created by ice halos and the interplay between light and ice crystals in the atmosphere.

22 degree halos

This article explores the science and characteristics behind the captivating phenomenon of 22-degree halos, discussing their formation, variations, geographic and seasonal variations, and tips for capturing their beauty through photography.

Tea & Coffee Cup Optical Effects

This article explores the fascinating optical effects that can be observed in tea and coffee cups, unveiling the hidden magic of refraction and interference. From colorful rings to mirage-like distortions, these enchanting phenomena remind us of the intricate nature of light and its interaction with liquids.

Pollen Corona over Delft

The article explores the mesmerizing pollen corona phenomenon over Delft, Netherlands, formed by pollen particles suspended in the air, and delves into the science behind it. It highlights the unique characteristics of birch pollen and the influence of wind and time of day on the corona's appearance.

Frederic Church Painting

This article explores the mysteries surrounding a small oil sketch by Frederic Edwin Church, a renowned American landscape painter. It delves into the enigmatic depiction of crepuscular rays and a crescent moon, raising questions about Church's attention to detail and inviting contemplation of the complexities of artistic interpretation.