Download IRIS

Last updated on September 16, 2023

Download IRIS: An Essential Tool for Atmospheric Optics Enthusiasts

If you're passionate about atmospheric optics and want to explore the fascinating world of optical phenomena, you'll be thrilled to know that you can freely download IRIS. IRIS, which stands for Image of Rainbow and Spectra, is a powerful software tool developed by Les Cowley. It allows users to simulate and visualize various atmospheric optical phenomena, such as rainbows, halos, and glories, among others. In this article, we'll delve into the details of downloading and using IRIS to enhance your understanding and appreciation of these natural wonders.

System Requirements and Installation Process

Before we delve into the download process, let's ensure that your system meets the necessary requirements for running IRIS. The software is compatible with PCs running Windows 95 or higher and requires a 24-bit color display. Don't worry about disk memory usage; IRIS is designed to have a small footprint on your system.

Now, let's move on to the installation process. If you don't already have HaloSim or an earlier version of IRIS installed, follow these steps:

1. Download the 'iris2.zip' file from the provided link.
2. Extract the contents of the downloaded file into a temporary folder.
3. Run the 'setup.exe' file and choose a folder for the program or use the suggested default.
4. Finally, run 'Iris.exe' to launch the IRIS software and begin your journey into the captivating world of atmospheric optics.

However, if you already have HaloSim or an earlier version of IRIS installed on your PC, you may be able to download a smaller file. If that doesn't work, follow these steps:

1. Download the smaller 'irisup2.zip' file from the provided link.
2. Extract the contents of the downloaded file into a new folder.
3. Run 'Iris.exe' to launch the updated version of IRIS.

Acknowledging the Use of IRIS

If you decide to publish any simulations or use IRIS for your own research or educational purposes, it's important to acknowledge the software's use and give credit to its creator, Les Cowley. In your publications or captions, make sure to include the URL "atoptics.co.uk" along with a mention of IRIS. This helps to ensure proper attribution and recognition for the valuable contribution that IRIS brings to the field of atmospheric optics.

Terms of Use and Redistribution Restrictions

While IRIS is freely available for download, it's crucial to respect the terms of use set by Les Cowley. The software must not be redistributed on websites, CDROMs, or any other means without explicit permission. Additionally, commercial copying or sale of IRIS is strictly forbidden. These restrictions are in place to protect the integrity and availability of the software while also recognizing the intellectual property rights of its creator.

Exploring the World of Atmospheric Optics with IRIS

Now that you have successfully downloaded and installed IRIS, you're ready to embark on a visual journey through the captivating realm of atmospheric optics. With this powerful software tool at your disposal, you can simulate and visualize a wide range of optical phenomena, including but not limited to:

• Rainbows: Explore the intricate details and variations of rainbows, from primary and secondary rainbows to supernumerary rainbows and even circular rainbows.
• Halos: Dive into the mesmerizing world of halos, with their diverse array of forms, including 22° halos, sun dogs, circumzenithal arcs, and more.
• Glories: Discover the ethereal beauty of glories, those captivating rings of colored light often observed around the shadow of an observer on mist or clouds.
• Other Phenomena: Delve into lesser-known but equally enchanting atmospheric optical phenomena, such as fogbows, coronas, iridescence, and the elusive green flash.

By experimenting with various parameters and atmospheric conditions within IRIS, you can gain a deeper understanding of the underlying physics behind these phenomena. The software provides a unique opportunity to explore and visualize how light interacts with water droplets, ice crystals, and other atmospheric particles to create these breathtaking displays.

Enhancing Scientific Research and Education

Beyond its appeal to atmospheric optics enthusiasts, IRIS also serves as a valuable tool for scientific research and education. Researchers can utilize the software to model and analyze optical phenomena under different atmospheric conditions, helping to deepen our understanding of these natural phenomena and their underlying physics. In educational settings, IRIS can be an invaluable resource for teachers and students alike, allowing for interactive visualizations and simulations that bring these concepts to life in the classroom.

In conclusion, downloading IRIS opens up a world of possibilities for anyone interested in exploring and understanding the captivating beauty of atmospheric optics. With its user-friendly interface and powerful simulation capabilities, this software provides a unique opportunity to simulate and visualize a wide range of optical phenomena. Whether you're an enthusiast, researcher, or educator, IRIS is a valuable tool that will enhance your knowledge and appreciation of the wonders of our atmosphere. So go ahead, download IRIS, and embark on an awe-inspiring journey through the magical realm of atmospheric optics.

IRIS may be freely downloaded. It must not be redistributed on web sites or CDROMs or by other means or resold. Commercial copying or sale is forbidden. If you publish simulations please acknowledge the use of IRIS and quote in the caption the URL atoptics.co.uk ©2002 Les Cowley. All rights reserved.

IRIS runs on PCs with Windows95 or higher. It needs a 24bit colour display. Disk memory use is small. If HaloSim is NOT already installed:(1) Download 'iris2.zip' here(2) EXTRACT into a temporary folder(3) RUN 'setup.exe'. When prompted chose a folder for the program or use the suggested default.(4) RUN 'Iris.exe' If HaloSim or an earlier version of IRIS is already installed. On many PCs with HaloSim already present it will only be necessary to download a much smaller file. If this does not work, download 'iris2.zip' and follow the instructions above.(1) Download the smaller 'irisup2.zip' file here(2) EXTRACT into a new folder(3) RUN 'Iris.exe'

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Reference Atmospheric Optics

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