Brocken Spectre in the sky - Another rare glory

Last updated on September 16, 2023

Brocken Spectre in the Sky - Another Rare Glory

Have you ever witnessed a rare atmospheric phenomenon that left you in awe? One such spectacle is the Brocken Spectre, an ethereal phenomenon that occurs when the sun casts your shadow onto a layer of mist or fog. But did you know that this phenomenon is often accompanied by another rare optical phenomenon known as a "glory"? In this article, we will delve into the fascinating world of the Brocken Spectre and explore the mesmerizing beauty of the glory in the sky.

The Brocken Spectre: A Mysterious Shadow

Imagine rowing out onto a tranquil lake on an early morning, surrounded by patches of mist. As the sun rises behind you, you notice a captivating sight in the sky - a colossal, color-ringed apparition. To your astonishment, it is your very own shadow! This intriguing phenomenon is known as the Brocken Spectre.

The Brocken Spectre occurs when sunlight is reflected upwards from behind an observer, creating a shadow that appears magnified and projected onto a layer of mist or fog. The mist droplets act as tiny mirrors, scattering and diffusing the sunlight. This scattering causes the shadow to be cast in the sky, seemingly opposite the sun. The result is a ghostly figure surrounded by a luminous halo.

The Rare Reflection Glory: A Delicate Dance of Light

While the Brocken Spectre itself is a remarkable sight, it often comes hand in hand with another optical marvel - the reflection glory. Glories are typically observed opposite the sun, appearing as concentric rings of vibrant colors. However, in the case of the Brocken Spectre, the reflection glory is produced by sunlight that is reflected upward from beneath a calm lake.

The reflection glory occurs when the upward-going reflected sun rays interact with the mist droplets in the air. These droplets act as miniature prisms, causing the sunlight to be scattered and diffracted. As a result, a colorful ring of light forms directly opposite the observer's position. This unique interplay of light and mist creates a captivating spectacle that adds an extra layer of enchantment to the Brocken Spectre.

Marko Riikonen: A Dedicated Observer

To witness the Brocken Spectre and its accompanying reflection glory is truly a rare event. Marko Riikonen, an experienced atmospheric optics observer, has dedicated his time and effort to capture these elusive phenomena. His expeditions involve meticulous planning, relying on favorable weather conditions, patchy mist, and mirror-like calmness of lakes. Marko's early starts and unwavering commitment have allowed him to witness and document these captivating optical displays.

Unveiling the Mysteries of Atmospheric Optics

The Brocken Spectre and reflection glory are just two examples of the captivating phenomena that occur within the realm of atmospheric optics. These natural wonders remind us of the intricate interplay between light, air, and moisture in our atmosphere. By studying and understanding these phenomena, scientists can gain valuable insights into the properties of light and the behavior of atmospheric particles.

Appreciating the Beauty of Nature's Artistry

As we delve into the world of atmospheric optics, we can't help but be awestruck by the sheer beauty and complexity of nature's artistry. The Brocken Spectre and reflection glory serve as gentle reminders of the hidden wonders that surround us every day. By taking the time to observe and appreciate these rare phenomena, we can develop a deeper connection with the natural world and gain a newfound appreciation for its intricacies.

In conclusion, the Brocken Spectre and its accompanying reflection glory are truly rare glories in the sky. These mesmerizing optical phenomena showcase the delicate interplay between light, mist, and atmospheric particles. By capturing these elusive moments, observers like Marko Riikonen bring the enchantment of atmospheric optics to life. So, the next time you find yourself in the presence of mist or fog, keep an eye out for the elusive Brocken Spectre and the captivating reflection glory - you never know when nature's artistry will grace the sky.

Brocken Spectre in the sky & Rare Reflection Glory by Marko Riikonen (site) Finland on the morning of 16th August '09. �Marko Riikonen.

Marko had rowed out onto a lake near Joensuu, Finland. It was early morning and the lake was swathed with patchy mist. The eerie colour ringed apparition hanging in the sky is his own shadow. Sun rays reflected upwards from behind him by the calm lake cast the shadow in the sky. The far greater rarity is the coloured ring - a glory in the sky.

Glories are opposite the sun, the sun is only visible in the sky and therefore glories must be below the horizon!

Not always. This �reflection glory� was produced by the upward going reflected sun rays being backscattered and diffracted by the tiny mist droplets. In effect the glory is directly opposite a second sun shining upwards from beneath the lake.

Marko�s earlier expedition on 14th August featured in an earlier OPOD shows an upper reflected glory and beneath it a �normal� glory, the latter made by unreflected downward going sun rays. Marko, an experienced atmospheric optics observer, worked hard for these marvels. Waits for a favourable weather forecast, the sun breaking through the right sort of patchy mist, a mirror calm lake and many early starts.

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Reference Atmospheric Optics

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