Miraged Mallorca from Barcelona

Last updated on September 16, 2023

Miraged Mallorca from Barcelona: A Fascinating Atmospheric Phenomenon

Have you ever heard of the captivating phenomenon of mirages? Well, let's delve into the intriguing story of a miraged image of Mallorca, an island located 170km (105 miles) across the Mediterranean from Barcelona, Spain. On the morning of December 26th, Alfons Puertas, from Fabra Observatory, captured an astonishing sight - the distant profile of Mallorca appearing as if suspended in the air. This phenomenon, known as a mirage, offers a mesmerizing glimpse into the wonders of atmospheric optics.

As Puertas gazed out towards Mallorca from Barcelona, he noticed something extraordinary. The mountains on the island seemed to stretch upwards, with the summit of one peak displaying two images floating above it, one of which appeared inverted. This captivating sight was captured by Puertas in his images, showcasing the ethereal beauty of the mirage.

The key to understanding this phenomenon lies in the temperature inversion layers through which the light from Mallorca passed. In temperature inversions, warmer air resides above cooler air. In this case, the cooler air can be observed as the lower dark bands near the sea. As light rays pass through these layers, they encounter temperature and density gradients that cause them to refract and deflect towards denser air. This deflection is what produces the towering effect seen in the miraged image and gives rise to the stacked images above the mountain peak.

What Puertas witnessed can be classified as a superior mirage, which is characterized by its elevated appearance. However, this particular mirage also exhibits strong flavors of a Fata Morgana. A Fata Morgana is a complex mirage phenomenon that occurs when light rays undergo multiple refractions due to varying atmospheric conditions. This results in distorted and elongated images that can sometimes resemble castles or cities floating in the sky.

The mirage of Mallorca from Barcelona serves as a reminder of the awe-inspiring phenomena that can occur in our atmosphere. By studying and documenting these occurrences, we gain a deeper understanding of the intricate workings of light and atmospheric conditions.

While the phenomenon itself is captivating, it is essential to note that the images and descriptions provided here may not appear exactly as intended due to the conversion from the old website. However, the original article can be found for reference if desired.

In conclusion, the miraged image of Mallorca from Barcelona offers a glimpse into the captivating world of atmospheric optics. Through temperature inversion layers and the refraction of light rays, this mesmerizing phenomenon creates an illusionary spectacle that enchants and perplexes those lucky enough to witness it. As we continue to explore and unravel the mysteries of our atmosphere, let us marvel at the wonders that lie just beyond our reach.

Miraged

Miraged Mallorca

The island of Mallorca is 170km (105 miles) across the Mediterranean from Barcelona, Spain.

Alfons Puertas (images) of Fabra Observatory pictured its distant profile on the morning of 26th December.

The mountains stretched upwards. The summit of one had two images floating above it, one inverted.

Image ©Alfons Puertas, shown with permission

Light from Mallorca passed through temperature inversion layers - warmer air above cooler. The cooler air is the lower dark bands near the sea.

Temperature and thus density gradients across the layers refract light rays. Rays deflect towards denser air. The deflection produces the towering seen here and the stacked images above the mountain peak.

A superior mirage at least, with strong flavours of a Fata Morgana.

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

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