Green Flash, Monte Novegno, Italy

Last updated on September 16, 2023

Green Flash at Monte Novegno, Italy: A Spectacular Atmospheric Phenomenon

Have you ever witnessed a mesmerizing green flash during a sunrise or sunset? One such captivating event occurred at Monte Novegno in Vicenza, Italy. Pierluca Grotto, an avid observer of atmospheric optics, had the privilege of experiencing this rare occurrence on the morning of October 29th, 2005. From an elevation of 1691 meters on Monte Rivon, Grotto captured a remarkable image of the highly distorted sun and the elusive green flash. This article delves into the phenomenon of the green flash and provides a more detailed exploration of this specific event.

The Green Flash: A Transient Optical Wonder

The green flash is a fleeting optical phenomenon that occurs at sunrise or sunset when atmospheric conditions are just right. It manifests as a brief burst of green light on the upper edge of the sun's disk. This captivating spectacle is caused by the bending of sunlight as it passes through the Earth's atmosphere. As the sun dips below the horizon, its light undergoes significant refraction due to atmospheric dispersion, separating the different colors of light.

Understanding Atmospheric Refraction

Atmospheric refraction is the bending of light as it passes through the Earth's atmosphere. This bending is caused by the variation in air density at different altitudes. When sunlight enters the atmosphere, it encounters layers of air with varying densities, which alters its path. The degree of bending depends on factors such as temperature, pressure, and humidity. As a result, the sun's image appears slightly higher in the sky than its true position.

Atmospheric Conditions and the Green Flash

To witness a green flash, specific atmospheric conditions must align perfectly. These conditions include:

• A stable atmosphere with minimal turbulence
• A clear and unobstructed view of the horizon
• A high level of atmospheric dispersion, which occurs when the sun is low in the sky
• The absence of excessive air pollution or haze

The Role of Temperature and Density Gradients

Temperature and density gradients in the atmosphere play a crucial role in the formation of the green flash. As the sun sets or rises, the temperature and density profiles change rapidly near the horizon. These gradients can cause light to refract differently, leading to the separation of colors. The green flash occurs when the atmosphere acts as a prism, bending and dispersing the green light to create a distinct flash of color.

Monte Novegno: A Perfect Vantage Point

Situated in Vicenza, Italy, Monte Novegno offers an ideal vantage point for observing atmospheric phenomena like the green flash. Its elevation of 1691 meters provides a clear view of the surrounding landscape and allows for an unobstructed view of the horizon. Additionally, the stable atmospheric conditions prevalent in this region contribute to the likelihood of witnessing rare optical events.

The Fascination with Atmospheric Optics

The study and observation of atmospheric optics have captivated scientists and enthusiasts for centuries. From rainbows and halos to mirages and green flashes, these optical phenomena offer glimpses into the intricacies of light and its interaction with the atmosphere. Each occurrence presents a unique opportunity to unravel the mysteries of our natural world.

Capturing the Moment: Pierluca Grotto's Image

Pierluca Grotto's photograph of the green flash at Monte Novegno stands as a testament to both his passion for atmospheric optics and the beauty of nature's wonders. This striking image showcases the highly distorted sun, its vibrant colors stretched across the sky, and the elusive green flash that momentarily graces the horizon. Grotto's keen eye and dedication to capturing these fleeting moments have allowed us to witness this extraordinary phenomenon.

The Elusiveness of the Green Flash

Despite its captivating allure, witnessing a green flash is a rare occurrence. The perfect alignment of atmospheric conditions, combined with an unobstructed view and favorable vantage point, is necessary for this optical phenomenon to manifest. It requires patience, persistence, and a touch of luck to be in the right place at the right time to experience the fleeting beauty of the green flash.

Embracing Nature's Spectacles

The green flash at Monte Novegno serves as a reminder of the enchanting phenomena that occur in our natural world. It encourages us to appreciate the beauty and complexity of our atmosphere and the wonders it can unveil. By immersing ourselves in the study of atmospheric optics and embracing the serendipity of these rare events, we can deepen our understanding and connection to the world around us. So, keep your eyes on the horizon, for you never know when nature will grace you with a breathtaking spectacle like the green flash.

Sunrise green flash from Monte Novegno, Vicenza, Italy . Pierluca Grotto saw this highly distorted sun and green flash on the morning of 29th October '05 from an altitude of 1691m on Monte Rivon. Image ©2005 Pierluca Grotto, reproduced with permission.

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Reference Atmospheric Optics

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