Articles About Atmospheric Science, Meteorology, and Climatology

Colorado Rainbows & Supernumeraries - OPOD

This article explores the captivating world of Colorado rainbows and supernumeraries, shedding light on the science behind these enchanting optical phenomena. It delves into the formation and behavior of supernumerary bows, offering insights into their unique appearance and the factors that influence their spacing and color.

Lowitz oriented crystals

This article explores the enigmatic Lowitz oriented crystals and their captivating halo phenomenon, shedding light on their geometric properties and the mesmerizing display they create in the sky. With advancements in digital photography, rare glimpses of these crystals have been captured, revealing their ethereal beauty and reminding us of the intricate dance between light and ice in our atmosphere.

Norwegian rare arcs

This article explores the mesmerizing details of Norwegian rare arcs, a breathtaking display of atmospheric optics found in Norway's stunning natural landscapes. From sundogs and sun pillars to rare halos like the sunvex Parry arc and Moilanen arc, this captivating phenomenon paints the sky with an otherworldly charm.

Observing & photographing green flashes

This article provides tips and precautions for observing and photographing green flashes, a captivating atmospheric phenomenon that appears as bursts of green light on the upper edge of the sun at sunrise or sunset. It discusses the best viewing locations, the optimal height for observation, dealing with haze, and safety precautions to protect eyesight.

Antisolar Region Arcs

This article explores the mesmerizing atmospheric phenomenon of Antisolar Region Arcs, which form around the antisolar point and create a captivating visual spectacle. Researchers have conducted simulations to better understand the intricate composition and narrowness of these arcs, leaving skywatchers in awe of nature's beauty.

OPOD - Maine Mirage Medley

This article explores the captivating world of atmospheric optics through the mesmerizing mirages captured by photographer John Stetson in Maine. These mirages showcase the phenomenon of light refraction and temperature gradients in the atmosphere, offering a glimpse into the ever-changing nature of our visual perception.

Opposition effect streak

The article explores the phenomenon of the opposition effect streak, a captivating optical effect that occurs when an array of parallel cylinders interacts with light, resulting in a bright streak appearing when viewed from certain angles. By understanding the mechanics of this phenomenon, we gain insights into the intricate interplay between light and matter in our everyday surroundings.

Sundog Formation

This article explores the formation of sundogs, captivating atmospheric optical phenomena that occur when sunlight interacts with plate crystals in cirrus clouds or diamond dust. It discusses the refraction and deviation of rays passing through these crystals, resulting in the distinctive appearance of sundogs with their red-hued inner edges.

Triple & double rainbows, Sweden

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of triple and double rainbows, focusing on a remarkable sighting in Sweden. It delves into the formation of reflection rainbows and the role of reflecting surfaces in creating these rare optical spectacles.

Peculiar Ground Halo Spokes - OPOD

This article explores the fascinating phenomenon of peculiar ground halo spokes, which are bright and glittering streaks radiating across snow from the low winter sun. The author investigates the ice crystals responsible for these spokes and discusses the meteorological conditions necessary for their formation.

Reflected Crepuscular Rays

This article explores the phenomenon of reflected crepuscular rays, which create an optical illusion of rays pointing in two different directions. It delves into the science behind these rays and how they are formed by reflected sunlight off distant lakes.

OPOD - Frost Mosquitoes

This article explores the fascinating world of winter frost crystals, including their formation and the factors that contribute to their unique shapes. It discusses the science behind hoar frost and highlights the captivating patterns and structures that these crystals exhibit.

OPOD - Oval and not so oval aureoles

This article explores the phenomenon of oval and elongated aureoles around stars and planets, suggesting that they may be caused by horizontally elongated ice crystals. The findings provide visual evidence for this hypothesis and contribute to our understanding of atmospheric optics.

Lowitz arcs - The 1790 St Petersburg Display

This article explores the phenomenon of Lowitz arcs observed by Tobias Lowitz in St. Petersburg in 1790, discussing his meticulous drawings and the potential explanations for the absence of upper arcs. It highlights the complexities of atmospheric optics and the importance of considering historical observations and crystal orientations.

XXXX - OPOD

This article explores the fascinating optical phenomena of atmospheric optics, focusing on the phenomenon of refraction and its stunning visual effects captured in images from Anchorage, Alaska. It emphasizes the importance of understanding light and its interaction with the atmosphere to gain insights into the behavior of light in different atmospheric conditions.

Moonbow - Maui, Hawaii

This article explores the rare and enchanting phenomenon of moonbows in Maui, Hawaii, discussing their formation, colors, and optimal viewing locations. It highlights the ethereal beauty and fleeting nature of moonbows, inviting readers to embrace the magic of these nocturnal rainbows in the Hawaiian night sky.

OPOD -Zodiacal Light, Fire, Planets

This article explores the celestial phenomenon of Zodiacal light, a soft pearly cone of light that extends from the direction of the sun along Earth's orbit. It discusses its origin in a disk of dust particles and highlights its captivating beauty when combined with Venus, Jupiter, and the glow of hot lava.

Lunar Corona, Spain - OPOD

This article explores the captivating atmospheric optical phenomenon of lunar corona, showcasing stunning images taken in Spain that capture the delicate colors and diffraction rings surrounding the moon. The article highlights the interplay between light and water droplets suspended in clouds, emphasizing the awe-inspiring beauty of lunar coronae.

Nacreous clouds, Norway - OPOD

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of nacreous clouds in Norway, discussing their visual impact and environmental implications. It emphasizes the importance of observing these clouds safely while appreciating their beauty and scientific significance.