Articles About Atmospheric Science, Meteorology, and Climatology

OPOD - Sweden Halos

This article explores the mesmerizing phenomenon of diamond dust halos in Sweden, showcasing the intricate beauty of ice crystals and their interplay with sunlight. The origin and frequency of these halos, including the enigmatic Moilanen arc, are discussed, highlighting the captivating allure of these natural optical displays.

Moon dogs - New Mexico

This article explores the mesmerizing phenomenon of moon dogs, also known as paraselenae, which occur when the Moon's light interacts with ice crystals in the Earth's atmosphere. It focuses on a particularly breathtaking display of moon dogs in New Mexico and highlights the science behind these captivating optical effects.

OPOD - Corona & Iridescence

This article explores the fascinating world of iridescence and corona in atmospheric optics, revealing the science behind these captivating optical phenomena. It delves into the causes of these phenomena, their differences, and provides tips on how to observe them firsthand.

Why do we see rainbows? - The Sky Transform - OPOD

This article explores the science behind rainbows and introduces the concept of the "sky transform" that explains how individual raindrops combine to create the colorful arcs of light we see in the sky. It also discusses how the concept of the sky transform applies to other atmospheric optical phenomena like halos and glories.

Crepuscular rays

This article explores the mesmerizing atmospheric optical phenomenon of crepuscular rays, discussing their formation, variations, cultural significance, and tips for photographing them. It highlights the illusions created by perspective and the captivating beauty of nature's light show in the sky.

English Lake District Glory

The article explores the captivating phenomenon of the English Lake District Glory, a circular array of colorful rings surrounding the observer's shadow caused by sunlight interacting with water droplets or ice crystals. It highlights the role of Brocken Spectres and provides insights on where and how to witness and capture this mesmerizing display.

Colored Arcs Not Rainbows

This article explores the formation and characteristics of colored arcs, which are distinct optical phenomena often mistaken for rainbows. It delves into the different types of colored arcs, including halos, glories, coronae, and iridescent clouds, and explains the mechanisms behind their formation through refraction, reflection, and diffraction.

Snow Cannon Halos, Sweden - OPOD

The article explores the mesmerizing and rare atmospheric phenomenon of Snow Cannon Halos in Sweden, showcasing stunning images of halos such as the Parry arc and helic arc. These captivating displays are created by the operation of snow cannons on nearby ski slopes, resulting in the formation of beautiful ice crystals and exceptional optical clarity.

Smoke Rays

This article explores the fascinating phenomenon of smoke rays, which occur when sunlight interacts with smoke particles in the air, creating an enchanting display of light and shadow. It delves into the science behind the formation of smoke rays and highlights their importance in understanding atmospheric optics.

Anti-crepuscular rays

This article explores the phenomenon of anti-crepuscular rays, captivating displays of light and shadows that appear in the opposite direction of the setting or rising sun during sunrise or sunset. It delves into the science behind these rays and discusses factors that influence their visibility, offering tips on capturing their beauty.

Wire Opera Reflections, Curitiba, Brazil - OPOD

This article explores the mesmerizing reflections created by water puddles on the steel decking of the Wire Opera in Curitiba, Brazil, showcasing the fascinating behavior of water surface tension and its interaction with different surfaces. The distortions and mirror-like effects formed by these reflections add a touch of magic to the overall ambiance of the Wire Opera, captivating visitors and providing them with a truly immersive visual experience.

Moiré Patterns - OPOD

This article explores the fascinating optical phenomenon of Moiré patterns, discussing their formation, sensitivity to movement, and real-world examples. It highlights how Moiré patterns can create visually stunning effects in various industries and artistic expressions.

Frosty Car

This article explores the fascinating phenomenon of fern frost, a captivating frost formation that resembles leafy ferns. It discusses how fern frost forms on car windscreens and external bodywork, showcasing its intricate and mesmerizing beauty.

OPOD - Bird Feather Iridescence

This article explores the intricate structures and optical properties of bird feathers, specifically focusing on their iridescence. It discusses how the arrays of barbs and barbules in feathers act as diffraction gratings, scattering and interfering with light to create a wide range of colors.

Bishops Ring - Kansas

This article explores the intricacies of Bishop's Rings, a mesmerizing atmospheric optics phenomenon captured in Kansas. It delves into their formation, the role of photography in capturing their beauty, and encourages a deeper appreciation for the wonders of our atmosphere.

Moonset from Earth Orbit

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of moonset from Earth orbit, showcasing the distortion caused by atmospheric refraction and the reddening of the moon's surface. The images captured by astronauts aboard the International Space Station provide valuable insights into atmospheric optics and the interplay between light, atmosphere, and celestial bodies.

Fogbow, Pacific Northwest

This article explores the mesmerizing optical phenomenon of fogbows in the Pacific Northwest, discussing their formation, unique appearance, optimal viewing conditions, and tips for capturing them in photographs.

Iridescence, County Wicklow, Ireland

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of iridescence in County Wicklow, Ireland, where vibrant colors dance among the clouds. It delves into the science behind iridescence and provides tips for observing this enchanting spectacle in the picturesque landscapes of County Wicklow.

Iridescence, Yunnan Observatory, China - OPOD

This article explores the mesmerizing phenomenon of iridescence at Yunnan Observatory in China, showcasing the captivating display of colors created by the scattering and interference of sunlight through water droplets in the clouds. It highlights the scientific significance and photographic challenges of capturing this ethereal spectacle.