Articles About Atmospheric Science, Meteorology, and Climatology

Secondary Rainbow

This article explores the characteristics and formation process of the secondary rainbow, including its distinct color reversal and increased width. It also discusses the factors that influence its visibility, along with other fascinating optical phenomena associated with rainbows.

Nacreous clouds - Atmospheric Optics

This article explores the rare and stunning phenomenon of nacreous clouds, which form high in the Earth's atmosphere and display vibrant colors through the diffraction and scattering of sunlight. It also highlights the scientific significance of these clouds in understanding atmospheric dynamics and ozone depletion.

Greek Corona

The article explores the intricacies of the Greek Corona, a captivating atmospheric phenomenon characterized by a delicate aureole of light encircling the Moon and multicolored rings beyond it. It delves into the formation of the corona, the role of cloud droplets in scattering and interfering with light waves, and the vibrant colors that result from wavelength-dependent scattering.

OPOD - Submit an image or cantact me

OPOD - Submit an Image or Contact Me: Capturing the Beauty of Optical Effects. This article explores the unique format of OPOD, showcasing stunning imagery and providing scientific explanations, inviting readers to delve deeper into the wonders of atmospheric optics.

Tenerife Sunset Pillar- OPOD

This article explores the mesmerizing phenomenon of sunset pillars, delving into their formation, the science behind them, and the research that has unraveled their mysterious nature. It discusses the groundbreaking use of computer simulations and ray tracing techniques to understand the intricate workings of these captivating natural spectacles.

Inca Rainbow

This article explores the cultural and scientific significance of the Inca rainbow at Machu Picchu, highlighting its unique formation influenced by altitude, mist, and drizzle. It showcases the interplay between light and water droplets and serves as a testament to the enduring allure of rainbows.

Banded Airglow

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of banded airglow and its connection to the mesosphere-lower thermosphere region, revealing valuable scientific insights through the analysis of airglow intensity and spectra. The mesmerizing dance of light in the sky is caused by slowly moving gravity waves that modulate gas density and temperature, creating ever-changing bands and patches of light.

Halo Display Collingwood, Ontario, Canada

Experience the mesmerizing beauty of the Halo Display in Collingwood, Ontario, Canada, as sunlight interacts with ice crystals to create a captivating spectacle of colors and shapes in the winter sky. Discover the intricate science behind this atmospheric optical phenomenon and marvel at the hidden mysteries of nature that unfold before your eyes.

Known issues

This article discusses known issues and artifacts that can arise when using simulations in atmospheric optics, and provides guidance on how to address them. It emphasizes the importance of accurate simulations and collaborative efforts to improve simulation software in order to enhance our understanding of atmospheric optics phenomena.

Parry & Tangent Arcs - OPOD

This article explores the captivating optical phenomena of Parry and Tangent Arcs, highlighting their ever-changing appearance, the influence of crystal orientation, and the role of solar altitude. Through photography, ray tracing simulations, and scientific observations, it delves into the beauty and wonder of these atmospheric optics phenomena.

Not the Earth from Space

This article explores the formation and intricate details of fern frost, a beautiful natural phenomenon that resembles images of Earth taken from space but is actually a formation of ice crystals found on various surfaces after a cold night. It delves into the growth patterns, factors influencing the size and intricacy of the formations, and the captivating beauty of nature's ice artistry.

Reflected crepuscular rays

This article explores the rare atmospheric phenomenon of reflected crepuscular rays, which occur when sunlight reflects off a smooth body of water, creating an illusion of rays illuminating the undersides of clouds. It discusses the conditions necessary for witnessing this captivating spectacle and highlights the interplay between light, water, and atmospheric conditions.

High Sun Halos - OPOD

This article explores the fascinating phenomenon of high sun halos, which offer a unique and captivating spectacle during the spring and summer months. It delves into the role of ice crystals in the atmosphere and their interaction with sunlight to create these beautiful optical phenomena.

Eye in the Sky

This article explores the formation of a rare "eye in the sky" phenomenon, created by the alignment of column crystals with two side faces nearly horizontal, resulting in a Parry arc atop an upper tangent arc. The absence of a 22° halo and the changing appearance of these arcs with the sun's elevation add to the intrigue and wonder of this captivating atmospheric display.

Halos, shadows and new engines

This article explores the captivating dance between halos, shadows, and contrails in the sky, revealing the intricate connections between these atmospheric phenomena. It also discusses how advancements in aviation technology and increased air traffic have led to an increase in contrail sightings.

OPOD - Urals Sun Pillar

The article explores the captivating Urals Sun Pillar phenomenon, delving into its formation and dispelling the illusion of an upward-going pillar of light created by reflections from ice crystals. It highlights the complexity and beauty of this atmospheric spectacle, inviting readers to appreciate the wonders of nature.

Snowflake Symmetry

This article explores the mesmerizing symmetry of snowflakes and the underlying mechanisms that govern their formation, showcasing the beauty of nature's design. It also delves into the art of snowflake photography and highlights the broader realm of atmospheric optics, revealing the stunning visual displays created by the interaction of light with atmospheric particles.

Disko Rays

This article explores the mesmerizing phenomenon of Disko Rays, also known as crepuscular rays or sunbeams, that can be observed in the Arctic sky, specifically in Disko Bay. It discusses how these radiant beams of sunlight create a captivating display of light and shadow, and highlights the importance of preserving our planet's fragile ecosystems in the face of climate change.

Moonstone Adularescence - OPOD

This article explores the captivating optical phenomenon of moonstone adularescence, which is caused by multi-layer interference within the stone. Through the interplay of alternating layers and reflections, moonstones emit a mesmerizing blue light when viewed from specific angles.

OPOD - Flatirons Iridescence

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of iridescence above the Flatirons in Boulder, Colorado, delving into the science behind the vibrant colors and ever-changing clouds. Witness the mesmerizing interplay of wind patterns, moisture content, and sunlight that creates this transient and enchanting display of atmospheric optics.