Miraged Eclipse

Last updated on September 16, 2023

Miraged Eclipse: A Stunning Atmospheric Phenomenon

Have you ever witnessed a miraged eclipse? On December 26, 2019, people across the Pacific to the Middle East were treated to this breathtaking celestial event. One such observer, Amir Abolfath, captured the mesmerizing partial phase of the eclipse at sunrise from Qeshm island, Iran. His photographs reveal a captivating play of light and optical illusions that left viewers in awe.

As the sun rose on that fateful morning, something unexpected happened. The sunrise began with two disconnected fragments of the sun, gradually merging into an angular shape. This unique phenomenon gave rise to an upper sun with an eclipsed notch and a lower sun seemingly sinking into the sea. It was a classical case of an 'inferior mirage' sunrise with an eclipse twist!

The choppy top visible on the surface of the sea in Abolfath's images is not the horizon, as one might assume. Instead, it is the lower edge of the mirage. But what causes this fascinating mirage effect? The answer lies in the temperature difference between the sea and the atmosphere.

During the night, the atmosphere cools down while the sea retains its warmth. As the sun rises, its rays pass through two layers of air with different temperatures. The warmer air close to the sea's surface heats up, creating a temperature gradient. This gradient causes the sun's rays to refract or bend, resulting in the formation of a mirage.

Mirages are not uncommon phenomena and can occur under various atmospheric conditions. However, witnessing a miraged eclipse adds an extra layer of enchantment to the experience. It is truly a sight to behold when nature's elements align to create such a visually stunning display.

Amir Abolfath's photographs capture the magic of this miraged eclipse with remarkable clarity. They serve as a reminder of the wonders that can unfold when we take the time to observe and appreciate the natural world around us. These images are a testament to the beauty and complexity of atmospheric optics.

If you find yourself fortunate enough to witness a miraged eclipse or any other atmospheric phenomenon, take a moment to immerse yourself in the splendor of the event. It is these rare occurrences that remind us of the awe-inspiring power of nature and the intricate workings of our atmosphere.

In conclusion, a miraged eclipse is a captivating atmospheric phenomenon that combines the awe-inspiring beauty of a solar eclipse with the intriguing optical illusions of a mirage. The interplay of temperature gradients and refracted light creates a mesmerizing spectacle that leaves observers spellbound. Amir Abolfath's photographs serve as a testament to the wonder and complexity of atmospheric optics, reminding us to cherish and marvel at the extraordinary events that occur in our natural world. So, keep your eyes on the sky and be ready to witness the magic of a miraged eclipse if the opportunity presents itself.

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The solar eclipse of December 26, 2019 swept from the Pacific to the Middle East.

Amir Abolfath (site, TWAN) caught the partial phase at sunrise from Qeshm island, Iran.

Sunrise started unexpectedly with two disconnected fragments of sun that slowly merged to an angular shape. As the sun rose further it transformed to an upper sun with an eclipsed notch and a lower sun sinking into the sea.

A classical 'inferior mirage' sunrise with an eclipse twist!

The choppy top to the sea is the lower edge of the mirage and not the horizon.

The sea was warmer than the night cooled atmosphere and warmed an air layer close to its surface. The sun's rays passing between the two air layers of different temperature were refracted (bent) to form the mirage.

An un-eclipsed mirage is here.

All images ©Amir Abolfath, shown with permission

Another unusual mirage by Amir Abolfath.

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