Angels Trumpets, Divergent Light Halos

Last updated on September 16, 2023

Angels Trumpets: Exploring the Enchanting World of Divergent Light Halos

Have you ever gazed up at the sky and been captivated by the ethereal beauty of atmospheric phenomena? One such enchanting spectacle is the phenomenon of "Angels Trumpets" or divergent light halos. These mesmerizing displays, resembling flared trumpets, can be observed in certain atmospheric conditions and are a variation of the more familiar upper tangent arc seen above the sun.

To understand the origin of these celestial trumpets, we must first delve into the world of ice crystals. It is these crystals that play a crucial role in the creation of the captivating divergent light halos.

The glowing forms we witness are known as ice halos, but they possess a unique characteristic. Unlike traditional halos, the crystals responsible for divergent light halos are located at low levels within the atmosphere. These crystals have the remarkable ability to reflect light from nearby lamps on the ground, resulting in the formation of divergent light halos.

Let us explore further the intricacies of these mesmerizing celestial phenomena:

1. Formation of Divergent Light Halos: Divergent light halos are formed when horizontal column crystals align between a lamp or light source and an observer's eye. These crystals, along with those scattered along complex surfaces, create a glint of light that manifests as a flared trumpet-like halo.

2. Dotted Curve and Light Deflection: The dotted curve between the lamp and the observer's eye plays a vital role in the formation of divergent light halos. Crystals along this curve deflect light by approximately 22 degrees into the observer's eye, marking the bottom edge of the divergent light tangent arc.

3. Variation from Upper Tangent Arc: While the upper tangent arc is a well-known atmospheric optical phenomenon observed above the sun, divergent light halos offer a unique variation. The flared trumpet shape distinguishes them from their more familiar counterpart, adding to their allure and mystique.

4. Location and Light Source: Divergent light halos are primarily observed in locations where low-level ice crystals are present in the atmosphere. The proximity of a nearby lamp or light source is essential for the crystals to glint light and create these captivating halos.

5. Optical Illusion: The intricate interplay of light, ice crystals, and the observer's perspective gives rise to the optical illusion of angelic trumpets. These celestial apparitions can transport us to a realm of wonder and imagination, evoking a sense of awe and enchantment.

6. Photography and Documentation: Photographers and skywatchers have played a significant role in capturing the beauty of divergent light halos. Their stunning images have allowed us to appreciate the intricate details and variations in these atmospheric phenomena, further fueling our fascination with the wonders of the sky.

7. Scientific Research and Understanding: Scientists and researchers continue to study divergent light halos to gain deeper insights into the physics and dynamics of atmospheric optics. Through advanced instrumentation and numerical modeling, they strive to unravel the complexities behind these celestial displays, expanding our understanding of the natural world.

8. Awe-Inspiring Moments: Witnessing a divergent light halo can be a truly awe-inspiring experience. The fleeting nature of these atmospheric phenomena adds to their allure, reminding us of the ephemeral beauty that surrounds us in the natural world.

9. Public Engagement and Education: Exploring and sharing knowledge about atmospheric optics, including divergent light halos, can ignite curiosity and engage the public in the wonders of science. By disseminating information through various platforms, we can foster a deeper appreciation for these enchanting celestial displays.

10. Ongoing Discoveries: The world of atmospheric optics is vast and ever-evolving. As scientists delve deeper into the complexities of light and atmospheric conditions, we can anticipate further discoveries and insights into the fascinating realm of divergent light halos.

In conclusion, the captivating phenomenon of Angels Trumpets or divergent light halos offers us a glimpse into the intricate beauty of atmospheric optics. These celestial apparitions, formed by low-level ice crystals and glinting light from nearby lamps, evoke a sense of wonder and enchantment. Through scientific research, photography, and public engagement, we continue to unravel the mysteries behind these ethereal displays, adding to our collective understanding and appreciation of the natural world's mesmerizing wonders. So, the next time you find yourself gazing at the sky, keep an eye out for the celestial trumpets that may grace the heavens above.

A host of angels sound their trumpets skyward over Kittilä, Finland. Images captured by Sauli Koski. Images ©Sauli KoskiBelow:

Another way of visualizing them. Crystals along the dotted curve between the lamp and eye deflect light by 22 degrees into the eye. This is the bottom edge of the divergent light tangent arc.

A host of angels sound their trumpets skyward over Kittilä, Finland. Images captured by Sauli Koski. Images ©Sauli KoskiBelow: Another way of visualizing them. Crystals along the dotted curve between the lamp and eye deflect light by 22 degrees into the eye. This is the bottom edge of the divergent light tangent arc.

To make them the angels first made ice crystals.

The glowing forms are ice halos. But halos with a difference. The crystals are at low level and glint light from nearby lamps on the ground to form 'divergent light halos'.

The flared trumpets are the divergent light halo variant of the more familiar upper tangent arc seen above the sun. Horizontal column crystals between the lamp and camera and along the complex surface at right glint light to make the halo.

More about them here.

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Reference Atmospheric Optics

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