Miraged sunset, Santa Cruz, California - OPOD

Last updated on September 16, 2023

Miraged Sunset in Santa Cruz, California: A Spectacular Atmospheric Phenomenon

Have you ever witnessed a miraged sunset? If not, prepare to be amazed by the captivating video captured by Michael Bolte in Santa Cruz, California. This mesmerizing display showcases not one, but three suns in the sky, each with its own unique characteristics and movements. In this blog post, we will delve deeper into the phenomenon of miraged sunsets, exploring the science behind it and the factors that contribute to its occurrence.

At first glance, the video reveals three distinct suns suspended in the sky. The uppermost sun appears to be descending, while the one below it is inverted and ascending. The lowest segment seems to be sinking. Adding to the spectacle, the uppermost sun is crowned with a green rim and occasionally emits green flashes. This extraordinary visual phenomenon is known as a mock-mirage sunset.

The key factor responsible for the creation of a miraged sunset is a temperature inversion. In this case, the lower layer of air near the Californian coast is cooled by the cold ocean current, while the upper layer of air is warmed by the land. As the sun's rays traverse through these contrasting temperature and density gradients, they undergo refraction, resulting in the formation of a mirage.

Let's take a closer look at the three mirage components visible in the video. The topmost sun is considered the "real" sun, as it experiences the least amount of refraction but still undergoes a slight shift from its actual position in the vacuum of space. The two segments within the inversion layer vary from one mirage to another, but their essential characteristics remain consistent. The upper segment appears upside-down and rises, while the lower segment descends.

To fully appreciate the complexity and beauty of a miraged sunset, it is essential to understand the underlying science. As light travels from one medium to another, such as from air to water or from warm air to cooler air, it bends or refracts due to the change in its speed. This phenomenon is known as atmospheric refraction. When the atmosphere contains layers with varying temperatures and densities, as is the case during a temperature inversion, the refraction of light becomes more pronounced, leading to the creation of mirages.

Miraged sunsets are not exclusive to Santa Cruz, California. They can occur in various locations around the world where the necessary conditions are present. However, witnessing such a remarkable display requires a combination of factors, including a temperature inversion and the presence of an observer at the right place and time.

The video captured by Michael Bolte provides a unique glimpse into the enchanting world of miraged sunsets. It serves as a reminder of the intricate and ever-changing nature of our atmosphere, constantly presenting us with awe-inspiring phenomena that challenge our understanding of the world around us.

In conclusion, the miraged sunset in Santa Cruz, California, is a truly extraordinary atmospheric phenomenon. The presence of three suns, each with its own distinct movements and characteristics, captivates viewers and sparks curiosity about the underlying scientific principles at play. By exploring the science behind mirages and the factors contributing to their occurrence, we gain a deeper appreciation for the wonders of our atmosphere. Whether you have personally witnessed a miraged sunset or not, this video serves as a reminder of the boundless beauty and complexity of our natural world.

Mock-Mirage Sunset

A wonderful example of a mock-mirage sunset videoed - play it below left - by Michael Bolte at Santa Cruz, California.

It has everything. Three suns, the upper one descending, the one below it inverted and ascending and the lowest segment sinking.

The uppermost is topped by a green rim and occasional green flashes.

A temperature inversion is responsible. The lower air layer is cooled by the cold ocean current off the Californian coast while the upper air is warm from the land. The suns rays are refracted into the mirage as they travel through the resulting temperature and density gradients.

©Michael Bolte, shown with permission

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The three mirage components. The topmost one is regarded as the 'real' sun. It is refracted least but is shifted nonetheless from the sun's vacuum position.

The two segments within the inversion layer differ from mirage to mirage but retain their essence of the upper one upside-down and rising while the lower one descends.

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