Articles About Atmospheric Science, Meteorology, and Climatology

OPOD - Three Suns - Mongolia

This article explores the mesmerizing spectacle of three suns in the sky in Northern Mongolia, delving into the science behind this extraordinary occurrence and the interplay of ice crystals and sunlight. It highlights the rare and intense nature of the sundogs observed in Mongolia and emphasizes the beauty and complexity of atmospheric optics worldwide.

OPOD - Glory & Brocken Spectre

This article explores the mesmerizing phenomena of glory and Brocken Spectre, delving into their unique characteristics and the complexities of their formation. It highlights the limitations of current explanations and theories, leaving us with a sense of curiosity and wonder about these atmospheric optics wonders.

OPOD -Zodiacal Light, Australia

This article explores the breathtaking celestial phenomenon of Zodiacal Light in Australia, discussing its delicate pearly cone of light that stretches across the sky and the optimal conditions for witnessing its beauty. It also delves into the origins of the Zodiacal Light, which can be traced back to a disk of dust particles beyond Jupiter's orbit, and mentions the additional feature of a fainter Zodiacal Band that adds mystique to the spectacle.

OPOD - Sky of two halves

The article explores the captivating atmospheric phenomenon known as the "Sky of Two Halves," where a cloud bank on the horizon casts long shadows that stretch across half of the sunset sky, delving into its scientific underpinnings and the interplay of light and shadows. It highlights the enchanting beauty and fleeting nature of this phenomenon, reminding us of the ever-changing wonders of our natural world.

Sun pillar, Powys Wales

This article explores the captivating atmospheric phenomenon of a sun pillar in Powys, Wales, and delves into the science and beauty behind this natural spectacle. Witness the breathtaking dance of light and ice crystals in the sky, creating a radiant pillar that leaves observers in awe.

Halos around the sky - OPOD

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of halos around the sky, which occur when sunlight interacts with ice crystals in the atmosphere. Atmospheric optics expert Alistair Fraser's remarkable panorama of halos around Kootenay Lake in Canada showcases various manifestations of this phenomenon, providing insight into the beauty and complexity of our natural world.

Caterpillar tents dewbow - OPOD

This article explores the formation and significance of caterpillar tents dewbows, unique and captivating bow formations created by drops of dew on delicate caterpillar tents. It delves into the science behind their appearance, including the optical properties of light and the physical characteristics of water droplets.

High and Low Rainbows, Izmir, Turkey - OPOD

This article showcases a series of stunning images capturing the high and low rainbows in Izmir, Turkey, providing a mesmerizing glimpse into the ever-changing nature and vibrant colors of these celestial phenomena. The photographs serve as a reminder of the ethereal beauty and wonder that can be found in even the simplest of natural occurrences.

Earth's Shadow & Belt of Venus, Sweden - OPOD

This article explores the enchanting atmospheric phenomena of Earth's Shadow and the Belt of Venus, showcasing stunning images captured in Sweden. It explains the science behind the colors and encourages readers to witness this captivating display of nature's artwork.

Maryland Mirages

This article explores the captivating Maryland Mirages, a fascinating optical phenomenon created by atmospheric conditions. Through the expert photography of Claudia Hinz, the article delves into the formation, characteristics, and science behind these mesmerizing inferior mirages.

OPOD - Hexagonal Rime

This article explores the captivating beauty and scientific complexity of hexagonal rime frost, formed by the solidification of supercooled fog and mist droplets on cold surfaces. It delves into the intricate details and mysteries surrounding this frosty phenomenon, offering a deeper appreciation for nature's artistry.

Bowsim Rainbow Simulator

The article explores the features and capabilities of the Bowsim Rainbow Simulator, a tool that uses numerical ray tracing techniques to simulate the formation of rainbows from various types of raindrops. Although not currently available for download, the simulator provides valuable insights into the physics of rainbows and offers a visual journey through different rainbow orders.

Nearly Endless Rainbows - OPOD

This article explores the infinite nature of rainbows and the science behind their formation, revealing the mesmerizing interplay between light and water droplets. It highlights the various optical phenomena associated with rainbows, offering a captivating glimpse into the wonders of atmospheric optics.

Pyramidal Plate Arcs

This article explores the unique features of pyramidal plate arcs, an unusual atmospheric optics phenomenon. Through simulations and analysis, researchers gain valuable insights into the formation and behavior of these captivating displays, pushing the boundaries of our knowledge in this fascinating field.

Today's Feature Sun Pillars

This article explores the captivating and delicate nature of sun pillars, a mesmerizing atmospheric optical phenomenon that occurs during sunset. It delves into their formation, appearance, colors, and scientific significance, providing fascinating insights into these enchanting displays of light.

Disco Mirage

The article explores the mesmerizing phenomenon of disco mirages in Disco Bay, Greenland, where temperature inversions and refraction create captivating optical illusions of inverted and erect images of icebergs. This symphony of reflection and distortion showcases the intricate beauty of atmospheric optics.

OPOD - Pollen Corona

The article explores the mesmerizing phenomenon of the pollen corona, showcasing its intricate patterns and vibrant colors created when light interacts with pollen particles suspended in the air. It also provides tips for photographing this elusive display and highlights ideal locations for observing pollen corona sightings.

Multiple Halo Displays

This article explores the captivating beauty of multiple halo displays, showcasing a variety of halos ranging from the common to the rare and elusive. It also highlights the opportunity for discovery and citizen science in studying these mesmerizing atmospheric phenomena.

Order & Chaos

This article explores the captivating phenomena of corona and iridescence, revealing the interplay between order and chaos in atmospheric optics. From the symmetrical elegance of corona to the ever-changing dance of iridescence, this article uncovers the mesmerizing secrets behind these optical effects.