Forest glade corona

Last updated on September 16, 2023

Forest Glade Corona: A Spectacular Atmospheric Phenomenon

When exploring the enchanting woods and forests, keep an eye out for a mesmerizing atmospheric optical phenomenon known as the forest glade corona. This captivating display can be witnessed in the morning mists, where water droplets are uniformly sized, creating corona rings that are beautifully enhanced by the presence of trees that help shield the intense sunlight.

In California, Randolph Wang of Princeton had the privilege of observing a particularly vibrant forest glade corona. The outer edge of the aureole exhibited a striking combination of yellow and red hues, while the first ring displayed vivid greens and blues, which stood out brilliantly against the backdrop of dark foliage and branches.

The forest glade corona, like other coronas, is formed when sunlight interacts with water droplets suspended in the atmosphere. As sunlight passes through these tiny droplets, it undergoes diffraction, causing the light to spread out and form a series of concentric rings. The size of these rings depends on the size and distribution of the droplets, with uniform-sized droplets producing well-defined and symmetrical rings.

The presence of trees in forested areas plays a crucial role in enhancing the visual impact of the forest glade corona. The dense foliage and branches act as a natural filter, partially blocking the direct sunlight. This diffuses the light further and creates a contrast between the vibrant colors of the corona rings and the darker surroundings, resulting in a visually stunning spectacle.

It is important to note that forest glade coronas are not exclusive to California; they can be observed in various wooded regions around the world. However, their occurrence is more common during certain weather conditions. The presence of morning mists or fog, coupled with uniform-sized water droplets, provides the ideal conditions for the formation of these magnificent coronas.

To fully appreciate and capture the beauty of a forest glade corona, it is recommended to observe it during the early morning hours when the mist is still present and the sunlight is not yet too intense. This allows for a clearer view of the corona rings and their vibrant colors against the backdrop of the forest.

Photographing a forest glade corona can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. To capture its true essence, it is advisable to use a camera with manual settings to adjust the exposure and focus. Experimenting with different angles and compositions can also yield unique and captivating images.

In conclusion, the forest glade corona is a truly remarkable atmospheric phenomenon that adds an element of magic and wonder to the natural beauty of wooded areas. Its vibrant colors and concentric rings, combined with the presence of trees, create a breathtaking spectacle that should not be missed. So, next time you find yourself in a misty forest glade, take a moment to look up and marvel at the captivating display of the forest glade corona.

Forest Glade Corona

Look for coronas in the morning mists of woods and forests. Their water droplets are often uniformly sized to produce corona rings and the trees help mask the bright sun.

This colourful example was seen in California by Randolph Wang of Princeton. The upper yellow and red are the outer edge of the aureole. The greens and blues of the first ring show up vividly against the dark foliage and branches.

©Randolph Wang, shown with permission.

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Reference Atmospheric Optics

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