Crepuscular rays - Sunrays - Cambridge

Last updated on September 16, 2023

Crepuscular Rays - Sunrays - Cambridge

Crepuscular rays, also known as sunrays, are a captivating atmospheric optical phenomenon that occurs during sunrise or sunset. These rays appear as beams of light that radiate from the position of the sun and extend across the sky, creating a stunning visual display. In Cambridge, England, where the image was captured by Carolina Odman in July 2002, the occurrence of crepuscular rays is not uncommon. Let's dive deeper into this fascinating natural phenomenon and explore its causes and characteristics.

Crepuscular rays are most commonly observed when there are scattered clouds in the sky, acting as a canvas for the sunlight to interact with. The rays appear to converge towards the position of the sun, giving the impression that they originate from a single point. However, this convergence is merely an optical illusion caused by the perspective from which we observe them.

The primary cause of crepuscular rays is the scattering of sunlight by particles in the Earth's atmosphere. As sunlight passes through the atmosphere, it interacts with tiny particles such as dust, water droplets, and even air molecules. These particles scatter the light in different directions, with shorter wavelengths (blue and violet) being scattered more than longer wavelengths (red and orange). This differential scattering creates the distinct rays that we see.

The appearance of crepuscular rays can vary depending on several factors, including the size and distribution of the scattering particles, as well as the angle at which sunlight enters the atmosphere. When the sun is low on the horizon during sunrise or sunset, its light has to pass through a larger portion of the atmosphere, resulting in more scattering and a greater chance for crepuscular rays to form.

One interesting aspect of crepuscular rays is their apparent parallel nature. Although the rays may appear to be perfectly parallel to each other, they are actually diverging from their source. This divergence is caused by the perspective from which we observe them, similar to the way train tracks appear to converge in the distance.

Crepuscular rays are not exclusive to Cambridge or any specific location. They can be observed in various parts of the world under the right atmospheric conditions. However, the particular image captured in Cambridge showcases the beauty of this phenomenon against the backdrop of the city's landscape, adding a unique charm to the scene.

To fully appreciate crepuscular rays, it is best to view them from an open area with an unobstructed view of the horizon. This allows for a clear line of sight for the rays to extend across the sky, creating a mesmerizing display of light and shadow. Whether you're in Cambridge or anywhere else, taking the time to witness this atmospheric spectacle can be a truly awe-inspiring experience.

In conclusion, crepuscular rays, or sunrays, are a captivating atmospheric optical phenomenon that occurs during sunrise or sunset. They are caused by the scattering of sunlight by particles in the Earth's atmosphere, creating beams of light that appear to converge towards the position of the sun. The apparent parallel nature of these rays is an optical illusion, and they actually diverge from their source. While crepuscular rays can be observed in various locations worldwide, the image captured in Cambridge exemplifies their beauty against the city's backdrop. To fully appreciate this phenomenon, find a vantage point with an unobstructed view of the horizon and witness the mesmerizing display of light and shadow that crepuscular rays offer.

Sunset rays Cambridge, England July 2002. Another image by Carolina Odman.

Image ©Carolina Odman, reproduced with permission.

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Reference Atmospheric Optics

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