Red Rainbow, New Mexico

Last updated on September 16, 2023

Red Rainbow, New Mexico: A Rare Atmospheric Phenomenon

Have you ever heard of a red rainbow? It's a stunning and rare atmospheric phenomenon that occurs when the sun is low on the horizon and its rays pass through raindrops in the air. While rainbows are typically seen as a semicircle of colors ranging from red to violet, a red rainbow is a unique variation that showcases a vibrant red hue. One particularly captivating example of this phenomenon was captured by David Tremblay from his home 7000 feet up in the Rocky Mountains of New Mexico. In this article, we will delve into the science behind red rainbows, their formation, and why they are so rarely observed.

The Science Behind Red Rainbows

To understand why red rainbows occur, we must first grasp the concept of light scattering. When sunlight enters the Earth's atmosphere, it encounters molecules and particles that cause the light to scatter in different directions. This scattering phenomenon is responsible for the blue color of the sky during the day. However, when the sun is low on the horizon, its light must travel through a greater distance of the atmosphere, resulting in increased scattering.

Formation of Red Rainbows

Red rainbows come into existence when the sun is near the horizon during early morning or late afternoon. At these times, the sunlight has to traverse a longer path through the atmosphere. As the sunlight interacts with raindrops in the air, it undergoes multiple reflections and refractions. The longer path and increased scattering cause the shorter wavelengths of blue and green light to disperse further, while the longer wavelength of red light remains more concentrated.

The Role of Raindrop Size

The size of raindrops plays a crucial role in the formation of red rainbows. Larger raindrops tend to produce more intense colors and a wider range of hues. This is because larger raindrops have a greater ability to refract and reflect light, allowing for a more pronounced display of colors. In the case of red rainbows, larger raindrops are particularly important in enhancing the intensity of the red hue.

The Rarity of Red Rainbows

Red rainbows are incredibly rare and are seldom witnessed. Several factors contribute to their infrequency:

1. Low Sun Angle: Red rainbows require a low sun angle, meaning they can only be observed during early morning or late afternoon when the sun is near the horizon.
2. Weather Conditions: Clear skies are essential for red rainbows to be visible. Cloud cover or rain showers can obstruct the sunlight, preventing the formation of red rainbows.
3. Geographical Location: The geographic location plays a role in the likelihood of observing a red rainbow. Areas with mountainous terrain, such as New Mexico, provide an ideal setting due to their elevation and atmospheric conditions.
4. Atmospheric Conditions: The composition and properties of the atmosphere can affect the formation of red rainbows. The presence of airborne particles or pollutants can alter the scattering of light and reduce the visibility of red rainbows.

Appreciating the Beauty of Red Rainbows

When a red rainbow graces the sky, it is truly a breathtaking sight to behold. The vibrant red hue stands out against the backdrop of blue and green hues, creating a striking contrast. It is a reminder of the incredible beauty and diversity present in our natural world. Capturing an image of a red rainbow, like David Tremblay did from his home in New Mexico, allows us to preserve this fleeting moment and share it with others who may never have the opportunity to witness such a spectacle firsthand.

Conclusion

Red rainbows are a captivating and rare atmospheric phenomenon that occurs when sunlight interacts with raindrops in the air. The longer path and increased scattering of light cause the shorter wavelengths to disperse further, while the longer wavelength of red light remains more concentrated. The size of raindrops and various environmental factors contribute to the formation and visibility of red rainbows. Witnessing a red rainbow is a truly awe-inspiring experience that reminds us of the wonder and beauty of our natural world.

Early Morning Red Rainbow. David Tremblay imaged this beauty from his home 7000 ft up in the Rocky Mountains of New Mexico. Red bows need a low sun so that the blue and green of its rays are weakened by scattering during the long journey through the atmosphere. ©David Tremblay , shown with permission.

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