Glories & Brocken Spectre - Mount Etna

Last updated on September 16, 2023

Glories & Brocken Spectre - Mount Etna: A Spectacular Atmospheric Phenomenon

Mount Etna, located in Sicily, Italy, is not only known for its majestic volcanic eruptions but also for the breathtaking atmospheric phenomena that occur in its vicinity. One such phenomenon is the combination of glories and Brocken spectres, which create a mesmerizing display in the skies above this iconic volcano. In September 2003, astrophotographer Arne Danielsen captured a remarkable image of his looming Brocken spectre shadow surrounded by a glory at an altitude of approximately 2600 meters from Valle del Bove (Valley of the Oxen). This rare spectacle showcases the beauty and complexity of atmospheric optics.

Understanding Glories

Glories are optical phenomena that occur when sunlight interacts with tiny water droplets or ice crystals suspended in the air. They appear as concentric rings of colors, with red on the outer edge and blue on the inner edge. Glories are typically observed when an observer is situated above a cloud or fog layer, looking down towards the sun. The droplets or crystals act as miniature lenses, bending and scattering the sunlight to create this ethereal spectacle. The size and uniformity of the droplets or crystals determine the size and intensity of the glory.

The Mechanics of Brocken Spectres

Brocken spectres, on the other hand, are shadowy figures that appear on clouds or mist when the sun is at the observer's back. These spectres are essentially magnified shadows cast by the observer onto the cloud or mist. The conditions required for a Brocken spectre to form include a cloud or mist layer, a source of light (usually the sun), and an observer positioned between the light source and the cloud. When sunlight passes through the observer's body and casts a shadow onto the cloud, it creates an awe-inspiring illusion of a giant figure surrounded by a halo.

The Combination: A Stunning Sight

When glories and Brocken spectres occur together, it creates a truly captivating visual experience. The glory forms as a result of the light bending and scattering through the water droplets or ice crystals, while the Brocken spectre is produced by the shadow cast by the observer. As the glory encircles the observer's shadow on the cloud or mist, it adds an extra layer of enchantment to the already mesmerizing phenomenon. This combination of atmospheric optics is rare and often leaves spectators in awe of nature's wonders.

Atmospheric Conditions and Mount Etna

Mount Etna's unique geographical location and atmospheric conditions make it an ideal setting for the occurrence of glories and Brocken spectres. The volcano's frequent eruptions release volcanic gases, creating a hazy atmosphere with suspended particles. These particles, along with moisture from nearby bodies of water, provide the necessary elements for the formation of glories and Brocken spectres. Additionally, the altitude of Mount Etna allows for observers to be positioned above cloud layers, providing optimal viewing conditions for these phenomena.

Other Atmospheric Optics on Mount Etna

While glories and Brocken spectres are among the most remarkable atmospheric optics observed on Mount Etna, they are not the only ones. Visitors to this volcanic wonderland may also have the opportunity to witness other fascinating optical phenomena such as:

• Sun Pillars: Vertical columns of light that appear above or below the sun, caused by the reflection and scattering of sunlight by ice crystals.
• Lunar Halos: Rings of light encircling the moon, formed by the refraction and reflection of moonlight through ice crystals.
• Cloud Iridescence: Vibrant, rainbow-colored clouds caused by the diffraction of sunlight around tiny water droplets or ice crystals in clouds.
• Volcanic Lightning: Electrical discharges that occur during volcanic eruptions, creating stunning lightning displays within the volcanic plume.

Capturing the Magic

Photographers and enthusiasts flock to Mount Etna in hopes of capturing these magical atmospheric phenomena. The combination of glories and Brocken spectres, in particular, presents a unique challenge and opportunity for astrophotographers to showcase the beauty of nature's optical wonders. The interplay of light, shadows, and atmospheric conditions makes each capture a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. Patience, timing, and an understanding of the science behind these phenomena are key to successfully documenting their splendor.

A Reminder of Nature's Marvels

Glories and Brocken spectres on Mount Etna serve as a reminder of the awe-inspiring beauty that can be found in our natural world. These rare atmospheric optics bring together science and art, captivating observers with their intricate patterns, vibrant colors, and ethereal presence. Whether witnessed firsthand or through the lens of a camera, the combination of glories and Brocken spectres on Mount Etna is a testament to the boundless wonders that await us in the skies above.

Mount Etna, Sicily glory and Brocken Spectre. Arne Danielsen (astrophotography and atmospheric phenomena) took the image of his looming Brocken spectre shadow surrounded by a glory at ~2600m altitude from Valle del Bove (Valley of the oxen) in September 2003. ©2003 Arne Danielsen, shown with permission.

Note: this article has been automatically converted from the old site and may not appear as intended. You can find the original article here.

Reference Atmospheric Optics

If you use any of the definitions, information, or data presented on Atmospheric Optics, please copy the link or reference below to properly credit us as the reference source. Thank you!