OPOD - Human Clouds

Last updated on September 16, 2023

OPOD - Human Clouds: A Closer Look at Skyward Iridescence

Have you ever witnessed the mesmerizing phenomenon of iridescence in the sky? If not, it's time to grab a warm coat, find a patient volunteer, and venture out on a cold day. In this article, we will explore the captivating world of "Human Clouds" and delve into the science behind this ethereal display of colors.

The image captured by Mónika Landy-Gyebnár from Hungary beautifully portrays one of the primary mechanisms responsible for skyward iridescence. It all starts with warm, moisture-laden air encountering a much colder air mass. As these two air masses mix, the rapid cooling process takes place. The water vapor present in the warm air condenses into tiny droplets, which then diffract sunlight, giving rise to the stunning iridescent hues.

While iridescence can be observed in various atmospheric conditions, it is often most pronounced in clouds. Clouds act as natural canvases for this captivating optical phenomenon. The rapid cooling that triggers iridescence typically occurs when air is forced upwards, causing it to expand and adiabatically cool. This upward movement of air leads to the formation of different types of clouds, each with its unique contribution to skyward iridescence.

Here are a few examples of cloud formations and their role in creating iridescence:

1. Pileus Cloud Iridescence: Pileus clouds are formed when a moist air layer is forced upwards by lower cumulus clouds. As this moist air rises and expands, it cools rapidly, creating ideal conditions for iridescence to occur.

2. Lenticular Clouds: These lens-shaped clouds are often seen at high altitudes in the lee of mountains or other atmospheric disturbances. Lenticular clouds form due to the up and down wave motion of air. As the air rises and cools, it provides another opportunity for iridescence to paint the sky.

3. Banner Clouds: Mountain peaks are known to host banner clouds, which are partly the result of warmer, moist air being induced to flow upwards. As this air ascends, it expands and cools, setting the stage for iridescence to adorn the mountaintops.

The interplay between temperature, moisture, and air movement creates the perfect recipe for iridescence to grace our skies. It's a phenomenon that showcases the beauty of nature's intricate processes and reminds us of the wonders that lie just above our heads.

Next time you find yourself on a chilly day with a willing participant, take a moment to breathe out slowly and gently, allowing your breath to transform into an ethereal display of colors. Watch as the sunlight interacts with the tiny water droplets in the air, creating a dance of iridescence that seems almost magical.

Remember, the key to capturing this phenomenon is to look against the light, preferably on a cold day when warm and cold air masses collide. Be patient and let nature unfold its splendid show before your eyes. Embrace the enchantment of "Human Clouds" and marvel at the hidden beauty that lies within our atmosphere.

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Human Cloud Iridescence imaged in Hungary by M�nika Landy-Gyebn�r.

©M�nika Landy-Gyebn�r

To capture the iridescence you will need to have a cold day, to look against the light and to have a patient volunteer who will breathe out slowly and gently.

Mónika's image neatly captures the mechanism of a major source of skyward iridescence. Warm, moist air is quickly cooled, in this case by admixture with much colder air. Water vapour condenses into tiny water droplets that then diffract sunlight.

In clouds, the rapid cooling mostly occurs when air is forced upwards causing it to expand and adiabatically cool.

Pileus cloud iridescence is the result of a moist air layer air forced upwards by lower cumulus.

Lenticular clouds form at the high points of up and down wave motion of air in the lee of mountains or other disturbances.

Banner clouds on mountain peaks are in part the result of warmer moist air induced to flow upwards where it expands and cools.

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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