Meall Corranaich, Scotland Glory

Last updated on September 16, 2023

Meall Corranaich, Scotland Glory: A Spectacular Atmospheric Phenomenon

Meall Corranaich, located in the Central Highlands of Scotland, is not only a stunning mountain but also a place where nature showcases its artistic skills through atmospheric optics. On the summit of Meall Corranaich, one can witness a mesmerizing optical phenomenon known as a glory. This captivating sight, captured by Neil Adams on January 26th, 2006, provides a glimpse into the beauty and complexity of the natural world.

A glory is an optical phenomenon that occurs when sunlight interacts with tiny water droplets or ice crystals suspended in the air. It appears as a set of concentric colored rings or arcs around the shadow of the observer. In this case, Neil Adams' shadow is surrounded by a glorious display of colors, creating a halo-like effect.

The glory observed from Meall Corranaich is particularly captivating due to the misty conditions present on that day. The mist adds an ethereal quality to the phenomenon, enhancing its visual impact. Charlie, the dog accompanying Neil on his adventure, seems to be captivated by his own shadow amidst the mist, adding an element of charm to the scene.

Glories are typically observed when the observer is positioned above a cloud or fog layer, with the sun behind them. As sunlight passes through the water droplets or ice crystals in the air, it undergoes diffraction, causing the light to scatter and create the characteristic rings or arcs of a glory. The colors of the glory are a result of interference between the diffracted light waves.

While glories are often associated with mountains and high-altitude locations, they can also be observed from airplanes or even from the top of tall buildings when the atmospheric conditions are right. The size and intensity of a glory can vary depending on factors such as droplet size and concentration, as well as the angle of the sunlight.

It is important to note that glories are not exclusive to Meall Corranaich or Scotland. They can be observed in various parts of the world under the right atmospheric conditions. However, the unique combination of mist, mountains, and the natural beauty of Scotland make the glory observed from Meall Corranaich a truly remarkable sight.

In addition to glories, Meall Corranaich offers other opportunities for atmospheric optical phenomena. The mountain's location in the Central Highlands of Scotland exposes it to a range of weather conditions, including fog, mist, and clouds. These atmospheric elements can contribute to the formation of other optical phenomena such as halos, rainbows, and even rare events like iridescent clouds or sun pillars.

The study of atmospheric optics is a fascinating field that combines physics, meteorology, and visual aesthetics. It allows us to appreciate the intricate interactions between light and the atmosphere, resulting in breathtaking displays of color and light. Meall Corranaich serves as a reminder of the wonders that nature has to offer and the importance of taking a moment to observe and appreciate the beauty that surrounds us.

So, next time you find yourself in the Central Highlands of Scotland, make sure to keep an eye out for the atmospheric optics phenomena that grace the summit of Meall Corranaich. Whether it's a glorious display of colors or other optical marvels, you are sure to be captivated by the magic of nature's artistic touch.

Glory from the summit of Meall Corranaich looking north towards Meall a' Choire Leith in the Central Highlands of Scotland.

Imaged by Neil Adams near midday on 26th January, 2006.

Charlie, the dog and veteran of 20 Munros, is not looking at Neil's shadow which, to him, would be quite plain. He is looking instead at his own shadow in the mist which will be surrounded by its personal doggy glory.

Another Meall Corranaich glory.

Image ©Neil Adams, shown with permission.

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Reference Atmospheric Optics

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