22 degree halo English Lake District

Last updated on September 16, 2023

Exploring the Enchanting 22-Degree Halo in the English Lake District

The English Lake District, with its breathtaking landscapes and picturesque scenery, is not only a haven for nature lovers but also a captivating stage for atmospheric optics phenomena. Among these mesmerizing displays is the elusive 22-degree halo, a stunning optical phenomenon that can leave onlookers in awe. In this article, we will delve into the enchanting world of the 22-degree halo in the English Lake District, exploring its characteristics and unraveling the secrets behind its ethereal beauty.

An Introduction to the 22-Degree Halo

The 22-degree halo is a circular ring of light that surrounds the sun or moon when certain atmospheric conditions are met. Named after its approximate radius of 22 degrees, this celestial spectacle is caused by the refraction and reflection of sunlight or moonlight by ice crystals suspended in the atmosphere. These ice crystals act as tiny prisms, bending and dispersing light to create a luminous ring encircling the celestial body.

Unveiling the Vibrant Colors

One of the most captivating aspects of the 22-degree halo in the English Lake District is its vibrant display of colors. As sunlight passes through the ice crystals, it undergoes dispersion, separating into its component colors. The inner edge of the halo exhibits a distinct red hue, which gradually fades into oranges and yellows before transitioning to a soothing blue on the outer edge. This mesmerizing color palette adds a touch of magic to the already enchanting scenery of the Lake District.

The "Hole in the Sky"

Upon closer observation of the 22-degree halo, one may notice an intriguing phenomenon known as the "hole in the sky." This dark region appears within the circular halo and is devoid of any refracted light. The absence of light in this area is attributed to the specific orientation of the ice crystals responsible for creating the halo. These crystals are aligned in such a way that light passing through them does not undergo refraction towards the inside of the halo, resulting in a captivating void amidst the luminous spectacle.

Iridescent Colors: A Delicate Dance of Light

Above the sun and in close proximity to the 22-degree halo, one might catch a glimpse of faint iridescent colors dancing in the sky. These ethereal hues are produced by the diffraction of sunlight as it interacts with minute cloud droplets and crystals suspended in the atmosphere. Unlike the vibrant colors of the halo itself, these iridescent colors appear more delicate and subtle, adding an extra layer of enchantment to the atmospheric display.

Embracing the Beauty of the English Lake District

The English Lake District, with its rolling hills, serene lakes, and charming villages, provides an idyllic backdrop for witnessing the captivating 22-degree halo. Whether you are embarking on a leisurely stroll or engaging in a challenging fell walk, keep your eyes peeled for this ethereal phenomenon. From the shores of Lake Windermere to the peaks of Scafell Pike, the Lake District offers numerous vantage points to admire and photograph the enchanting 22-degree halo.

Capturing the Magic: Photography Tips

For those seeking to capture the beauty of the 22-degree halo in the English Lake District through photography, here are a few tips to enhance your chances of success:

• Choose a clear day with minimal cloud cover to ensure optimal visibility of the halo.
• Position yourself in an area with unobstructed views of the sky, away from tall buildings or trees that may interfere with your shot.
• Consider using a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive nature of the halo against the stunning backdrop of the Lake District.
• Experiment with different exposure settings to achieve the desired balance between capturing the halo's vibrant colors and maintaining the overall atmospheric ambiance.
• Don't be afraid to explore different angles and compositions to create unique and visually captivating images.

The Ever-Changing Sky: A Reminder of Nature's Wonders

The 22-degree halo in the English Lake District serves as a poignant reminder of the ever-changing beauty of the natural world. As the atmospheric conditions shift and evolve, so too does the appearance of this ethereal phenomenon. Each viewing is a unique experience, with variations in color intensity, size, and shape adding an element of surprise and intrigue. Embrace the unpredictability of nature and let yourself be swept away by the enchanting allure of the 22-degree halo in the English Lake District.

Conclusion

The English Lake District is not only a haven for nature enthusiasts but also a stage for captivating atmospheric optics phenomena. The 22-degree halo, with its vibrant colors, "hole in the sky," and delicate iridescent hues, adds an ethereal touch to the already enchanting scenery. So, next time you find yourself in the Lake District, keep your eyes on the sky and immerse yourself in the mesmerizing beauty of the 22-degree halo.

22º halo image index

22� radius halo English Lake District.

Imaged on 28th June 2002 by Ann Bowker (Mad about Mountains) while fell walking.

The halo colours show well. There is a distinct red inner edge fading away from the sun through oranges and yellows to blue. The inside is dark, a "hole in the sky", because no light is refracted there by ice crystals.

Above the sun and much closer to it than the halo there are some faint iridescent colours produced by diffraction of sunlight by very small cloud droplets and crystals.

©2002 Ann Bowker, reproduced with permission.

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Reference Atmospheric Optics

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