Articles About Atmospheric Science, Meteorology, and Climatology

Hawaii Oahu Blue Flash

This article explores the rare and captivating "Hawaii Oahu Blue Flash" phenomenon, delving into its causes, characteristics, and scientific explanations. Readers will gain a deeper appreciation for the intricate interplay between light and the atmosphere, and may be inspired to witness this ethereal beauty for themselves on the island of Oahu.

OPOD - NLC season starts

The article discusses the start of the NLC season, providing information on where and when to look for these ethereal clouds and how to distinguish them from other cloud types. It also explores the composition of NLCs and highlights the differences between NLCs and stratospheric nacreous clouds.

Russian Pillars

The article explores the mesmerizing atmospheric phenomenon of Russian Pillars, which are vertical columns of light created by the reflection of artificial light off ice crystals in the atmosphere. It delves into the science behind this captivating spectacle and provides tips for photographing these enchanting pillars of light.

Ski-slope rare halos - Kern Arc?

This article explores the rare and captivating phenomenon of ski-slope rare halos, focusing on the enigmatic Kern Arc and its full circle continuation of the circumzenithal arc. It discusses the conditions necessary for the formation of these halos and how advancements in technology have made it more accessible to observe them near ski resorts.

Glory & Brocken Spectre

This article explores the captivating phenomena of glory and Brocken Spectre, delving into their formation and the science behind them. Through stunning images and scientific explanations, readers will gain a deeper appreciation for the interplay between light, mist, and our ever-changing atmosphere.

Moilanen Arcs & Ski Resorts - OPOD

This article explores the rare atmospheric phenomenon of Moilanen arcs and their connection to ski resorts, particularly during episodes of diamond dust formation. It discusses the potential influence of snow-making operations on the occurrence of Moilanen arcs and the ongoing scientific inquiry into their formation and the specific ice crystals involved.

Southern Alberta Cloudbows

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of cloudbows in southern Alberta, Canada, where each person sees their own unique bow. It delves into the science behind these ethereal displays and highlights the intriguing characteristics of cloudbows and their close cousin, fogbows.

OPOD - Rainbow Trails

This article explores the intricacies of rainbow trails, delving into the science behind how sunlight interacts with water droplets to create the vibrant colors of a rainbow. It discusses the process of refraction and reflection within water droplets, as well as the factors that contribute to the variations in rainbow appearances, such as drop shape, surface tension forces, and drop distortion.

OPOD - 360° Rainbow

This article explores the fascinating phenomenon of the 360° rainbow, discussing its formation through the interaction of sunlight and water droplets. It also highlights the rarity of natural 360° rainbows and the possibility of recreating them under specific conditions.

OPOD - Forbidden Radiation - Hungarian Airglow

This article explores the enigmatic Hungarian airglow phenomenon, capturing breathtaking images of airglow at the Baja Observatory and delving into the mysteries of its forbidden radiation. Ádám Szabó's journey to document the elusive airglow bands reveals the captivating beauty and peculiarities of Hungarian airglow.

44° Parhelia

This article explores the rare and fascinating phenomenon of 44° parhelia, unique halos that appear as colored "smudges" on each side of the sun. It delves into their formation, rarity, and showcases captivating images captured in Northern Minnesota in January 2004.

Aircraft tip vortices - OPOD

This article explores the formation, visibility, and helical structure of aircraft tip vortices, revealing the captivating world of these mesmerizing atmospheric phenomena and their impact on aviation operations. It highlights the interplay between air pressure, fluid dynamics, and atmospheric conditions that give rise to these enchanting trails left behind by aircraft.

Circumscribed Halo

The article explores the captivating phenomenon of the circumscribed halo, a brightly colored oval encircling the sun that is tangential to the inner 22º halo. It discusses its relationship with the 22º halo, shape variations based on solar altitude, and the interplay between sunlight and ice crystals that contribute to its visual display.

Holy Light

This article explores the mesmerizing phenomenon of the Holy Light, also known as Heiligenschein, and delves into the science behind its enchanting appearance. It discusses how dew drops and geometrical optics play a role in creating this radiant glow, and highlights the beauty and complexity of atmospheric optics.

Norwegian Halos

This article explores the mesmerizing display of Norwegian halos, which are vibrant and diverse optical effects created by sunlight interacting with ice crystals in the atmosphere. It delves into the intricate elements and formations of these halos, providing a deeper understanding and appreciation for their beauty.

Rays over the Tasman Sea, New Zealand

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of rays over the Tasman Sea in New Zealand, discussing their causes, appearance, and cultural significance. It also offers insights into photographing these mesmerizing sunbeams.

Arctic Fata Morgana

The article explores the Arctic Fata Morgana, a mesmerizing mirage phenomenon in the Arctic region caused by temperature inversions and atmospheric density gradients. It discusses the illusion of floating objects and the challenges in identifying the exact targets of the mirage, while highlighting the captivating nature of this optical phenomenon.

Circumzenithal Arc, Poland

This article explores the beauty and science behind the Circumzenithal Arc, a captivating optical phenomenon that occurs when sunlight interacts with ice crystals in the atmosphere. It specifically focuses on the occurrence of this phenomenon in Poland, showcasing its ethereal charm and the interplay between sunlight and ice crystals.

Contrail Shadow & Halo - OPOD

This article explores the captivating atmospheric phenomenon of contrail shadows and halos, challenging our perception and inviting us to marvel at the complexities and beauty of nature's interplay with light and clouds. It delves into the twisted appearance of contrail shadows, the puzzle they present, and their implications for understanding atmospheric dynamics and advancing meteorology and aviation.

Virga

This article explores the fascinating phenomenon of virga, which refers to the streams of raindrops, snowflakes, or ice crystals that fall from clouds but evaporate before reaching the ground. It delves into the different types of virga, their formation processes, and their visual appeal, offering insights into the intricate interplay between clouds, precipitation, and evaporation in the atmosphere.