Finland fogbow

Last updated on September 16, 2023

Finland Fogbow: A Spectacular Atmospheric Phenomenon

Fogbows are captivating atmospheric optical phenomena that occur when sunlight interacts with tiny water droplets suspended in fog. One remarkable example of a fogbow was witnessed in Finland on September 10, 2003. The morning was enveloped in dense mist across southern and central Finland, creating the perfect conditions for the formation of several awe-inspiring fogbows. Tom Eklund, fortunate enough to witness this spectacle while driving to Lapland, managed to capture a stunning photograph of one of these elusive phenomena.

Understanding Fogbows

Fogbows are closely related to rainbows, sharing a similar formation process. However, they differ in appearance due to the smaller size of the water droplets present in fog. When sunlight passes through these minuscule droplets, it undergoes diffraction, resulting in a unique color display. The colors of a fogbow are typically pale and pastel, appearing as a ghostly white or blue arc with a faint outer edge.

The Science Behind the Finland Fogbow

The Finland fogbow observed by Tom Eklund was formed when sunlight interacted with the tiny water droplets in the dense fog. The droplets acted as miniature prisms, bending and dispersing the light. The light rays that underwent diffraction formed a circular arc in the sky, with the observer positioned at its center. This circular shape distinguishes fogbows from rainbows, which form as semi-circular arcs.

Capturing the Finland Fogbow

Tom Eklund's photograph of the Finland fogbow provides a rare glimpse into the ethereal beauty of this atmospheric phenomenon. The image showcases a vibrant and well-defined fogbow, its pale hues contrasting against the misty backdrop. Eklund's ability to capture such a clear image is a testament to his skill and the favorable conditions presented that day.

Factors Influencing Fogbow Visibility

Several factors contribute to the visibility and intensity of fogbows:

• Fog Density: The denser the fog, the greater the number of water droplets available to interact with sunlight, resulting in a more pronounced fogbow.
• Sunlight Availability: Adequate sunlight is necessary for fogbows to form and be visible. Overcast conditions or low sun angles can diminish their visibility.
• Water Droplet Size: The size of the water droplets in the fog influences the diffraction of light. Smaller droplets tend to produce more vivid colors, while larger droplets may result in a less defined fogbow.
• Observer Positioning: The observer must be positioned with their back to the sun to witness a fogbow. This positioning ensures that the sunlight interacts with the water droplets, creating the optical phenomenon.

Similar Atmospheric Optics Phenomena

While fogbows are mesmerizing, they are just one of several fascinating atmospheric optics phenomena. Here are a few other captivating optical occurrences that share similarities with fogbows:

• Rainbows: Rainbows form when sunlight refracts, reflects, and disperses through raindrops. Unlike fogbows, rainbows appear as semi-circular arcs and exhibit a wider range of vibrant colors.
• Glories: Glories are circular optical phenomena that occur when sunlight is scattered backwards by water droplets in clouds or fog. They appear as colorful rings around the shadow of an observer, with the observer positioned at the center.
• Halos: Halos are formed by the refraction and reflection of sunlight through ice crystals in the atmosphere. They often appear as bright circles or arcs around the sun or moon, accompanied by a variety of colorful halos and arcs.

Appreciating the Beauty of Atmospheric Optics

The Finland fogbow captured by Tom Eklund serves as a reminder of the astonishing beauty found within our atmosphere. Atmospheric optics phenomena, such as fogbows, offer a glimpse into the intricate interactions between sunlight and the various particles suspended in the air. Whether it be the delicate pastel hues of a fogbow or the vibrant colors of a rainbow, these natural wonders inspire awe and appreciation for the world around us.

Next time you find yourself shrouded in fog, take a moment to look skyward. You might just witness the enchanting sight of a fogbow, a fleeting spectacle that reminds us of the wonders hidden within the mist.

Finnish fogbow by Tom Eklund (aurorae, other images). "On 10th September (2003) the morning was extremely misty in most parts of southern and central Finland. I was driving to Lapland and had the opportunity witness several fogbows. Some were quite awesome. Luckily I managed to snap a picture of one them and here's the pic..." ©Tom Eklund, shown with permission.

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