Halos near Longview, Alberta Canada

Last updated on September 16, 2023

Halos near Longview, Alberta Canada: A Spectacular Atmospheric Optics Phenomenon

Halos near Longview, Alberta Canada are a captivating spectacle that mesmerizes both locals and visitors alike. These stunning optical phenomena occur when low-level "diamond dust" ice crystals fill the air, creating a magical display in the sky. Cally Coman, a talented photographer, captured the beauty of these halos in an awe-inspiring image.

The image showcases the remarkable sight of tall, bright sundogs against the backdrop of rolling hills. Sundogs are formed by large plate-shaped ice crystals that wobble and flutter as they descend through the atmosphere. Interestingly, as these crystals reach a certain stage, it becomes challenging to distinguish between tall pillars and fragments of the 22° halo. Smaller plate-shaped crystals, on the other hand, exhibit more aerodynamic stability, resulting in squatter sundogs.

The same unsteady ice crystals responsible for the sundogs also give rise to other fascinating optical phenomena. The upper and lower sun pillars, for instance, appear as vertical columns of light extending above and below the sun. These pillars are created when light interacts with the ice crystals, producing a stunning vertical extension of the sun's rays.

Additionally, the parhelic circle can be observed passing faintly through the sun and extending more brightly beyond each sundog. This circular band of light is formed by sunlight interacting with ice crystals that are oriented horizontally in the atmosphere. The parhelic circle adds an extra dimension to the already breathtaking display of halos near Longview.

The presence of these halos indicates that Alberta's skies are adorned with "diamond dust" ice crystals. These ice crystals, which resemble tiny diamonds, form near the ground and float gently in the air. As sunlight passes through these delicate crystals, it undergoes refraction and reflection, resulting in the mesmerizing array of halos seen in Longview.

To fully appreciate the beauty of halos near Longview, it is important to understand the science behind these atmospheric optics phenomena. The interaction between sunlight and ice crystals leads to the bending and splitting of light, creating the various halo formations. The size, shape, and orientation of the ice crystals play a crucial role in determining the specific type of halo observed.

In Longview, Alberta, the unique combination of atmospheric conditions, including the presence of "diamond dust" ice crystals, contributes to the frequent occurrence of halos. The region's cold climate and geographic location make it an ideal location for experiencing these captivating optical displays.

Whether you are a seasoned photographer or simply an admirer of natural wonders, witnessing the halos near Longview, Alberta Canada is an experience that will leave you in awe. The ethereal beauty of these optical phenomena serves as a reminder of the intricate and mesmerizing wonders that can be found in our atmosphere.

So, next time you find yourself in Alberta, be sure to keep an eye on the skies above Longview. You might just witness a celestial spectacle that will take your breath away.

Halos near Longview, Alberta Canada imaged by Cally Coman. Frozen Alberta extends to its skies for the halos tell us that there are low level "diamond dust" ice crystals in the air. The tall bright sundogs appear in front of the hills because the crystals forming them are closer. Tall sundogs are made by large plate shaped crystals wobbling and fluttering markedly in their downward drift (at some stage, tall pillars become difficult to separate from 22° halo fragments). Smaller plates are more aerodynamically stable and deliver squatter dogs. The same unsteady crystals made the upper and lower sun pillars and the parhelic circle passing faintly through the sun and extending more brightly beyond each sundog. ©2003 Cally Coman, reproduced with permission.

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