OPOD - Belarus Elliptical Halo

Last updated on September 16, 2023

OPOD - Belarus Elliptical Halo: A Spectacular Atmospheric Phenomenon

Have you ever looked up at the sky and been captivated by the beauty of a halo? Halos are optical phenomena that occur when light interacts with ice crystals in the atmosphere. One such mesmerizing halo is the Belarus Lunar Elliptical Halo, which was imaged by Anton Dodonov on March 25, '13 at Rechitsa, Gomel Region, Belarus. Let's dive into the details of this extraordinary atmospheric event.

The Belarus Lunar Elliptical Halo stands out from other halos due to its unusually large size and elliptical shape. The oval shape of the halo is indicative of the presence of ice crystals in the atmosphere, which act as prisms, bending and refracting light. In this case, the elliptical halo had a partial second, outer companion, suggesting that two separate ray paths were possible through the ice crystals.

To capture this breathtaking phenomenon, Anton Dodonov used a Canon 550D camera with an EF 50mm lens. The exposure settings were 0.5 seconds at f/3, with an ISO of 800. The resulting image showcases the halo with its long axis positioned vertically in the sky, creating a truly unique visual spectacle.

The presence of halos like the Belarus Lunar Elliptical Halo reminds us of the intricate and fascinating nature of atmospheric optics. These phenomena occur when light interacts with ice crystals or water droplets suspended in the atmosphere. The shape and appearance of halos depend on various factors, including the type of ice crystals present and their orientation in the atmosphere.

In the case of elliptical halos, the elongated shape is a result of the ice crystals being aligned in a specific way. As light passes through these crystals, it undergoes multiple internal reflections and refractions, leading to the formation of an elliptical halo. The size of the halo can vary depending on the size and abundance of ice crystals in the atmosphere.

It is important to note that halos are not limited to lunar events; they can also be observed around the Sun or other celestial objects. The presence of halos often indicates the presence of high-altitude cirrus clouds, which are composed of ice crystals. These clouds play a crucial role in the formation of halos by providing the necessary medium for light interaction.

The Belarus Lunar Elliptical Halo serves as a reminder of the vast array of atmospheric optical phenomena that exist. From rainbows and sundogs to halos and iridescent clouds, the sky never ceases to amaze us with its beauty and wonder. These phenomena are not only visually stunning but also provide valuable insights into the physics of light and the composition of our atmosphere.

In conclusion, the Belarus Lunar Elliptical Halo is a remarkable example of an atmospheric optics phenomenon. Its unusually large size and elliptical shape make it a captivating sight for sky gazers. By studying and documenting these events, we can deepen our understanding of the complex interactions between light and ice crystals in our atmosphere. So, keep your eyes on the sky and be ready to witness the magic of atmospheric optics unfold before you.

Belarus Lunar Elliptical Halo

Imaged by Anton Dodonov March 25, '13 at Rechitsa, Gomel Region, Belarus. Canon 550D EF 50mm 0.5s at f/3 ISO 800. The long axis was vertical in the sky.

Another unusually large elliptical halo. The oval has a partial second, outer, companion indicating that two discrete ray paths were possible through whatever crystals made it.

Images ©Anton Dodonov, shown with permission

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