Airplane Glory

Last updated on September 16, 2023

Airplane Glory: Exploring the Phenomenon

When it comes to witnessing the breathtaking atmospheric phenomenon known as the "glory," we often think of finding a viewpoint on a hill or mountain to gaze down upon sunlit mist or clouds. However, thanks to the convenience of air travel, we now have the opportunity to witness this mesmerizing sight from the comfort of an airplane seat. While climbing a hill may be easier for some, the airplane view offers an extra dimension to this ethereal experience.

The glory appears as delicate colored rings that flicker and sparkle in the sky. It is exactly opposite the sun, resulting in its centered position on the shadow of the camera or, in the case of being on a mountain, around the shadow of one's head. This creates the fascinating optical illusion known as the Brocken Spectre, adding an unnerving yet captivating element to the phenomenon.

One of the unique aspects of observing the glory from an airplane is the ever-changing perspective as clouds slide beneath. This dynamic movement can cause the glory to swell and transform, providing a truly awe-inspiring spectacle for those fortunate enough to witness it. Whether you find yourself seated in first class or steerage, the glory remains a remarkable sight that captivates all who lay eyes upon it.

To fully understand the science behind the glory, we must delve into the principles of light and water droplets. The glory is a result of diffraction, which occurs when light waves encounter obstacles or pass through narrow openings. In this case, the droplets in the mist or cloud act as tiny prisms, bending and dispersing the incoming sunlight to create the rings of colors that form the glory.

The size of the water droplets plays a crucial role in determining the appearance of the glory. Smaller droplets produce a more vivid and well-defined glory, while larger droplets may cause the rings to blur or merge together. The colors of the glory are a result of interference between the diffracted light waves, with shorter wavelengths appearing closer to the center and longer wavelengths appearing towards the outer edges.

The phenomenon of the glory is not limited to airplanes and mountains. It can also be observed from other elevated viewpoints, such as tall buildings or observation decks. However, the unique vantage point offered by airplanes adds an extra layer of wonder to the experience. As you soar through the sky, surrounded by clouds and sunlight, the glory becomes a testament to the beauty and complexity of our atmosphere.

In conclusion, the glory is a remarkable atmospheric phenomenon that enchants and captivates those fortunate enough to witness it. Whether observed from an airplane window, a mountain peak, or any other elevated location, the delicate rings of colors and their shimmering dance in the sky leave us in awe of the wonders of nature. So next time you find yourself on a flight, make sure to keep an eye out for the airplane glory and let yourself be mesmerized by this breathtaking spectacle.

Özkan Bilgin, Anadolu Agency Photojournalist, of Turkey shrink and its delicate coloured rings flicker and sparkle caught this multi-ringed wonder.

Once, to see a glory a viewpoint on a hill or mountain down onto sunlit mist or cloud was necessary. Now we just need an airplane and a seat at a clean and unscratched window. Hmm… ..easier to climb a hill? An aircraft view has an extra dimension though. As clouds slide beneath, the glory might swell and wonderfully. Of course, everyone that sees your photograph knows where you were seated, first class or steerage!

The glory is exactly opposite the sun and so is centred on the shadow of the camera (buried somewhere in the aircraft's shadow) - Or, if you are on a mountain, it's around the shadow

of your head to form the unnerving Brocken Spectre.

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Reference Atmospheric Optics

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