OPOD - Deceptive Ray, Melbourne, Australia

Last updated on September 16, 2023

OPOD - Deceptive Ray, Melbourne, Australia

Have you ever witnessed a mesmerizing optical phenomenon that seemed too surreal to be true? In Melbourne, Australia, a captivating atmospheric optics event known as the "Deceptive Red Ray" has been observed. This phenomenon creates the illusion of a red beam of light shooting straight up from the iconic Eureka Tower, captivating onlookers and photographers alike.

Captured on February 1st, 2013, by photographer Ash Crill from St Kilda Pier during sunset, the image showcases the remarkable sight of the Deceptive Red Ray. The photograph has since gained attention for its stunning portrayal of this unique atmospheric phenomenon.

The Eureka Tower, with its distinctive design, plays a crucial role in creating this optical illusion. Part of the tower's facing side inclines inwards, forming windows that act as a colossal, slightly tilted mirror. As the sun sets, its near-horizontal and reddened rays are reflected by this "mirror" into a narrow beam. The beam appears to point vertically from the building but is, in fact, an illusion.

To the eye or a camera lens, the Deceptive Red Ray gives the impression of an ethereal beam rising directly from the Eureka Tower towards the heavens. However, in reality, the beam slopes gently upwards and crosses the river towards the observer. This fascinating illusion is a result of the mirror-like reflection of the setting sun's rays.

The Deceptive Red Ray serves as a captivating example of how atmospheric optics can create stunning visual effects that challenge our perception. While this phenomenon may seem extraordinary, it can be explained through the principles of reflection and refraction of light.

During this atmospheric event, several factors contribute to the creation of the Deceptive Red Ray:

• The unique design of the Eureka Tower, with its inclined windows acting as a giant mirror.
• The angle at which the setting sun's rays hit the tower's windows, resulting in a narrow beam.
• The reddened hue of the sun's rays during sunset, adding to the captivating visual effect.

The Deceptive Red Ray is not exclusive to Melbourne, Australia, but can potentially occur in other locations with similar architectural designs and favorable lighting conditions. This phenomenon serves as a reminder of the beauty and wonder that can be found in our everyday surroundings.

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In conclusion, the Deceptive Red Ray phenomenon in Melbourne, Australia, offers a glimpse into the captivating world of atmospheric optics. Through the ingenious design of the Eureka Tower and the interplay of sunlight and reflection, this illusion creates a mesmerizing visual experience for those fortunate enough to witness it. The Deceptive Red Ray serves as a reminder of the wonders that nature and architecture can produce when they converge in harmony.

Deceptive Red Ray

A red ray appears to beam straight up from the Eureka Tower Melbourne, Australia.

Ash Crill took the image from St Kilda Pier at sunset on 1st February '13.

©Ash Crill, shown with permission.

Part of the facing side of the Eureka Tower inclines inwards. Its windows act as a giant, slightly tilted, mirror.

The 'mirror' reflects the near horizontal and reddened rays from the setting sun into a narrow beam that points backwards and crosses the river towards the camera. The beam slopes gently upwards. To the eye or camera it looks as though it points vertically from the building - that is an illusion.

Note: this article has been automatically converted from the old site and may not appear as intended. You can find the original article here.

Reference Atmospheric Optics

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