Articles About Atmospheric Science, Meteorology, and Climatology

Halo Display, Oslo, Norway ~ December 16, 2007

The article describes a halo display witnessed in Oslo, Norway on December 16, 2007, which included various atmospheric optical phenomena such as parhelic circles, halos, sundogs, Parry arcs, and a Lowitz arc. The display challenged the belief that exceptional displays can only be seen in cold weather or Polar regions and provided valuable opportunities for scientists to study atmospheric optics.

Nacreous Clouds, Norway - OPOD

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of nacreous clouds in Norway, including their formation, unique characteristics, and mesmerizing colors. It showcases stunning images and a time-lapse video that capture the ethereal beauty of these clouds in the Norwegian sky.

Subhorizon Red Rainbow, Réunion Island - OPOD

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of subhorizon red rainbows, discussing their formation, appearance, and the factors that influence them. It also highlights the breathtaking colors and the role of photographers in capturing and preserving these natural wonders.

Lunar Corona - OPOD

The article explores the captivating phenomenon of lunar corona, which occurs when sunlight or moonlight is diffracted by clouds or fog droplets in the atmosphere, resulting in stunning rings surrounding the moon. It discusses the factors that influence the appearance and complexity of coronae, such as the size and distribution of droplets, and highlights the beauty and awe-inspiring nature of this celestial marvel.

Not so mundane 22° halo, Cambridge, England - OPOD

This article explores the captivating nature of the 22° halo, a commonly seen atmospheric phenomenon, focusing on a particular example captured in Cambridge, England. It delves into the mysterious aspects of the halo, such as the presence of a dark 'hole' and the gradual transition of colors, while also discussing the mechanisms behind its formation and the need for further research to unravel its secrets.

Green flash - Green Rim

This article explores the science behind the green flash phenomenon during sunsets, discussing the role of refraction, mirages, and the behavior of light. It also explains why green flashes are green and not blue, highlighting their ephemeral nature and the need for caution when observing them.

OPOD - Aurorae

This article explores the science behind aurorae, including the mechanisms that produce these captivating light displays and the different colors they emit. It also provides tips for photographing aurorae and highlights the best time and location to witness these mesmerizing natural wonders.

OPOD - Human Clouds

This article explores the captivating world of "Human Clouds" and delves into the science behind the mesmerizing phenomenon of skyward iridescence in clouds, showcasing the beauty of nature's intricate processes. It explains how warm, moisture-laden air encountering colder air masses leads to the condensation of water droplets that diffract sunlight, creating stunning iridescent hues.

Contrails & Shadows

This article explores the captivating phenomena of contrails and shadows in the sky, delving into their formation, interaction, and scientific significance. It highlights how these atmospheric optics phenomena offer insights into climate change, air quality, object geometry, and the behavior of light in our atmosphere.

Hot wall lateral mirage - OPOD

This article explores the hot wall lateral mirage, an intriguing atmospheric optics phenomenon that distorts and reflects images on a sunlit wall through the formation of a layer of warm air. It delves into the mirage's mirrored illusion, vanishing line, and the role of refraction, offering a captivating insight into this mesmerizing optical display.

OPOD - Henley Circumzenithal Arc

The article explores the mesmerizing beauty of the circumzenithal arc, a rare atmospheric phenomenon characterized by vibrant colors and spectrally pure hues. It delves into the formation, optical characteristics, and variations of the arc, highlighting its captivating nature and inspiring awe in observers.

Anticrepuscular Rays, Norway

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of anticrepuscular rays in Norway, discussing their formation, best viewing times, and tips for photographing them. It highlights the beauty and complexity of these rays as a reminder to appreciate the wonders of the natural world.

Czech Republic 4rd & 4th Order Rainbows - OPOD

This article explores the rare and mesmerizing 3rd and 4th order rainbows captured in the Czech Republic by photographer Zbyněk Černoch, offering a glimpse into the beauty and complexity of these atmospheric optical phenomena. These higher-order rainbows, formed by multiple refractions of light within water droplets, create an ethereal and delicate display of colors that remind us of the beauty and complexity of our natural world.

Pine Tree Oil Interference Colours - OPOD

This article explores the mesmerizing phenomenon of Pine Tree Oil Interference Colors, delving into the science behind the enchanting play of light and showcasing the captivating interplay between light, matter, and film thickness, angle, and wavelength. The accompanying images by John Stetson offer a glimpse into the ethereal beauty of this otherworldly spectacle.

OPOD - Opposition Streak

This article explores the phenomenon of the Opposition Effect Streak, where the shadow of an object appears as a bright linear streak instead of a circular spot. It delves into the science behind this unique optical phenomenon and discusses the factors that affect its appearance.

Contrail Iridescence - OPOD

Contrail iridescence is a captivating optical phenomenon that occurs when certain conditions are met during the formation of contrails, resulting in the separation of colors and the creation of vibrant bands of hues in the sky. Observing this phenomenon can be challenging due to its fleeting nature, but those fortunate enough to witness it are treated to a breathtaking display of iridescence.

OPOD - Red Tangent Arc

This article explores the captivating red tangent arc, an atmospheric optical phenomenon formed by sunlight passing through horizontally aligned column ice crystals. It delves into the changing shape and vibrant colors of the arc, provides photography tips, and encourages further exploration of atmospheric optics.

Alaskan Multiple Rainbows - OPOD

This article explores the mesmerizing phenomenon of multiple rainbows captured in Alaska, showcasing the intricate interplay of light, reflection, and water droplets. These extraordinary displays offer a glimpse into the hidden complexities and wonders of our natural world.

New Halo by Marko Riikonen

The article discusses the discovery of a new halo phenomenon in the field of atmospheric optics, captured by Marko Riikonen in Rovaniemi, Finland. The observation of this new halo adds to our understanding of ice crystals and their interaction with light in the atmosphere.

Sunset Mirages

This article explores the fascinating phenomenon of sunset mirages, where the low slanting rays of the sun are refracted between air layers of different temperatures, creating mesmerizing illusions of multiple sun images. It also discusses the connection between sunset mirages and the rare occurrence of the green flash during sunset or sunrise.