Halo expedition, Finland - OPOD

Last updated on September 16, 2023

Halo Expedition, Finland - A Journey into the Mysteries of Atmospheric Optics

In the enchanting winter wonderland of Koli National Park in Finland, a group of passionate halo enthusiasts embarked on a captivating expedition. Armed with their cameras and a deep fascination for atmospheric optics, they set out to capture the elusive beauty of halos dancing in the frigid air. Led by Jukka Ruoskanen, their journey took them to the frozen expanse of Lake Pielinen, where nature's spectacle awaited.

As night fell, the sky unveiled its breathtaking canvas, adorned with an array of ethereal halos. The first glimpse captured by Jukka Ruoskanen's lens reveals a mesmerizing 180° view. A lunar 22° halo takes center stage, accompanied by paraselenae, upper and lower tangent arcs, and a paraselenic circle - the lunar counterpart of the parhelic circle. Adding to the spectacle are fragments of a 46° halo near the horizon, while artificial light pillars illuminate the scene with their radiant presence. All these captivating halos were generated by diamond dust, an atmospheric phenomenon consisting of tiny ice crystals suspended in the air.

Jukka Ruoskanen's lens also captured the captivating interplay between atmospheric halos and celestial bodies. At the latitude of 63° North, an excited oxygen atom aurora competes for attention with the serene glow of the Moon, while a complete paraselenic circle encircles the sky. This celestial dance showcases the harmonious convergence of atmospheric optics and celestial wonders.

In their quest to unravel the secrets of halos, the expedition members delved deeper into the process of halo formation. They observed and documented the creation of ice crystals that give birth to these ethereal phenomena. These intricate crystals, suspended in the frigid air, play a crucial role in bending and refracting light to produce halos of varying shapes and sizes. The expedition offered a rare opportunity to witness the halo-making process firsthand, shedding light on the delicate interplay between atmospheric conditions and ice crystal formation.

While exploring the celestial wonders above, the expedition members were treated to the sight of Orion, the mighty hunter, dwarfed by the magnificence of the halos. This juxtaposition highlights the sheer grandeur and scale of these atmospheric phenomena, which can often overshadow even the most prominent celestial objects.

The halo expedition in Finland serves as a testament to the enduring fascination that atmospheric optics holds for individuals captivated by nature's mysteries. Through their meticulous observations and stunning imagery, these halo enthusiasts have not only deepened our understanding of halo formation but also awakened a sense of awe and wonder for the beauty that lies hidden in the skies above.

In conclusion, the halo expedition in Finland stands as a remarkable testament to the allure of atmospheric optics. By venturing into the heart of Koli National Park and capturing the ethereal dance of halos, Jukka Ruoskanen and his fellow enthusiasts have provided us with a deeper appreciation for the intricate interplay between light, ice crystals, and the atmosphere. Their captivating images and firsthand accounts transport us into a world where science and art converge, where nature's wonders never cease to amaze. As we gaze upon these celestial spectacles, we are reminded of the boundless beauty that surrounds us and the endless mysteries waiting to be unraveled in the ever-changing tapestry of the sky.

Winter Halo Expedition

Images by Jukka Ruoskanen taken on the ice of Lake Pielinen, Finland.

A group of avid halo observers spent nights last week in Koli National Park chasing halos.

The 180° wide view shows a lunar 22° halo, paraselenae, upper and lower tangent arcs and a paraselenic circle the lunar version of the parhelic circle. Near the horizon are fragments of a 46° halo. Artificial light pillars are at right. Diamond dust generated the halos.

All images ©Jukka Ruoskanen, shown with permission

At 63° North an excited oxygen atom aurora competes with the Moon and complete paraselenic circle

Sampling the halo making ice crystals. And in the sky, Orion the mighty hunter is dwarfed by the halos.

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