Dawn Pillar - Piscataqua River NH

Last updated on September 16, 2023

Dawn Pillar - Piscataqua River NH: A Stunning Atmospheric Phenomenon

Have you ever witnessed a breathtaking sunrise that seemed to paint the sky with vibrant colors? In addition to the awe-inspiring beauty of a sunrise, there are sometimes rare atmospheric phenomena that add an extra touch of magic to the scene. One such phenomenon is the Dawn Pillar, which can be observed at the Piscataqua River in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Captured in an image by Bob Colwell on December 4th, 2003, this captivating display showcases the vertical fragmentation of cloud crystals and the mesmerizing reflections of wave-tilted water in the river.

Understanding the Dawn Pillar

The Dawn Pillar is an optical phenomenon that occurs when sunlight interacts with ice crystals present in the atmosphere. It is closely related to the more well-known phenomenon called a sun pillar. Sun pillars are vertical columns of light that extend above or below the sun, caused by the reflection and scattering of sunlight by ice crystals suspended in the air. Similarly, the Dawn Pillar is formed by the same mechanism but is observed during the early morning hours when the sun is just beginning to rise.

The Formation Process

To understand how the Dawn Pillar forms, we need to delve into the science behind it. As the first rays of sunlight penetrate the Earth's atmosphere, they encounter tiny ice crystals suspended in the air. These ice crystals can take various shapes, such as plates, columns, or hexagonal prisms. When the sunlight interacts with these crystals, it gets scattered and refracted in different directions.

The Dawn Pillar specifically occurs when the ice crystals responsible for its formation are oriented vertically. These vertically aligned crystals act as tiny mirrors, reflecting and scattering sunlight in a vertical direction. The result is a beautiful pillar of light extending upwards or downwards from the horizon, depending on the observer's vantage point.

The Glittering Reflections on the River

In the image captured by Bob Colwell, the Dawn Pillar is not the only captivating element. The river itself appears to be adorned with a mesmerizing "glitter path." This phenomenon is formed in a very similar way to a sun pillar. The myriad reflections seen on the river's surface are caused by the sunlight being reflected off the wave-tilted water.

As waves move across the river, they create small ripples and disturbances on its surface. When sunlight interacts with these rippled areas, it gets scattered and reflected in various directions. The result is a dazzling display of glittering reflections that add an extra layer of beauty to the scene.

Exploring Atmospheric Optics

The Dawn Pillar and the glitter path on the Piscataqua River serve as reminders of the wonders of atmospheric optics. These phenomena highlight the intricate interplay between sunlight, ice crystals, and water. By studying and understanding these optical phenomena, scientists gain valuable insights into the composition and behavior of our atmosphere.

Atmospheric optics is a fascinating field that encompasses a wide range of phenomena, including rainbows, halos, and mirages. It explores how light interacts with particles in the atmosphere, leading to the formation of these captivating visual displays. Through careful observation and analysis, scientists can unravel the mysteries behind these phenomena and deepen our understanding of the world around us.

Witnessing Nature's Spectacles

The Dawn Pillar and the glitter path on the Piscataqua River are just two examples of the countless wonders that nature has to offer. These rare atmospheric phenomena remind us of the immense beauty and complexity of our world. Whether it's a stunning sunrise, a vibrant rainbow, or a shimmering halo, taking the time to appreciate and marvel at these natural spectacles can bring a sense of wonder and awe into our lives.

So, next time you find yourself by the Piscataqua River at dawn, keep an eye out for the mesmerizing Dawn Pillar and the glittering reflections on the water. Nature has a way of surprising us with its extraordinary displays, and by being present and observant, we can become witnesses to these magical moments. Let the beauty of the Dawn Pillar inspire you to explore and appreciate the many wonders that exist in our atmosphere.

Dawn Pillar Piscataqua River at Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Imaged by Bob Colwell on 4th December '03. The vertical fragmentation reveals the locations of cloud crystals. The 'glitter path' in the river is formed in a very similar way to a sun pillar. Its myriad reflections are from wave tilted water. ©2003 Bob Colwell, reproduced with permission.

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Reference Atmospheric Optics

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