Articles About Atmospheric Science, Meteorology, and Climatology

Twinned Rainbow, Wyoming - Atoptics Highlights OPOD

This article explores the rare phenomenon of twinned rainbows, focusing on a sighting in Wyoming captured by Jan Curtis after a hail storm. It discusses the formation of twinned rainbows and the conditions necessary for their occurrence, highlighting the importance of studying and documenting these captivating atmospheric optics phenomena.

Fogbow

This article explores the captivating world of fogbows, including their formation, unique characteristics, and the science behind their enigmatic presence in our atmosphere. It also provides tips for photographing these elusive atmospheric wonders.

Puddle Optics - OPOD

This article explores the captivating world of puddle optics, revealing the fascinating phenomena that occur within raindrop puddles and delving into the science behind them. It discusses the intriguing effects of convex mirrors, refraction, rainbows, mirror-like reflections, ripple effects, and the creative photography opportunities that puddle optics offer.

Brocken Spectre

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of the Brocken Spectre, a ghostly figure accompanied by a three-ringed glory, and delves into the scientific insights and formation process behind this mesmerizing atmospheric optics phenomenon. It highlights the unique characteristics of a Brocken Spectre image captured in thin morning mist and emphasizes the intricate nature of mist droplets and their role in creating this ethereal spectacle.

Green Flash

This article explores the enigmatic green flash phenomenon, discussing its variations and the science behind it. It also provides tips for observing green flashes safely.

Cloud-Top Blue Flash - OPOD

This article explores the rare and mysterious atmospheric phenomenon known as cloud-top blue flashes, which occur higher above the horizon than ordinary flashes and are characterized by a stunning display of colors. The article discusses the refraction and atmospheric scattering that contribute to these captivating events, while acknowledging that the exact mechanisms behind them remain elusive.

Great Wall Bow

This article explores the fascinating phenomenon of the Great Wall Bow, a captivating display of rainbows that occurs at the Great Wall of China. Delving into the science behind its formation, the article uncovers the intricacies of rainbows and highlights the enchanting beauty of this natural wonder.

OPOD - UK Halos

This article explores the rare and beautiful atmospheric phenomenon of high sun halos, showcasing the enchanting display captured over Lancashire, England. From the mesmerizing parhelic circle to the colorful circumscribed halo fragment, this atmospheric spectacle is a moment of awe-inspiring splendor.

Corona ring brightness and colour - OPOD

This article explores the relationship between corona ring brightness and color, shedding light on the intriguing characteristics of this atmospheric spectacle. It delves into the intensity patterns, variations, and the role of individual droplets in producing the vibrant colors and distinct character of coronas.

Perfect Lower Tangent Arc - OPOD

This article explores the Perfect Lower Tangent Arc, a rare and elusive atmospheric phenomenon formed by hexagonal column crystals. Through captivating images and scientific explanations, the article unveils the beauty and complexity of this optical wonder.

Ducted Mock Mirage Green Flash

This article explores the ducted mock mirage green flash, a captivating and elusive optical phenomenon that occurs during sunset or sunrise. It delves into the causes and scientific principles behind this phenomenon, offering tips for witnessing it firsthand.

Heiligenschein

This article explores the fascinating optical phenomenon known as heiligenschein, a radiant glow that surrounds the shadow of an object. It discusses the formation process of heiligenschein, which involves the reflection and scattering of sunlight by small water droplets or ice crystals in the atmosphere, adding a touch of magic to our everyday surroundings.

Middle Lowitz Arc, Sweden

This article explores the mystery of the Middle Lowitz Arc, a rare atmospheric phenomenon that continues to puzzle scientists. It discusses a particular sighting in Sweden and the absence of the upper and lower Lowitz arcs, providing insights into the role of crystal morphology in their formation.

Moon Halos

This article explores the fascinating phenomenon of moon halos, discussing their formation, the conditions required for visibility, and the captivating optical phenomena that can accompany them. It also highlights the global presence of moon halos and provides tips for photographing these enchanting celestial displays.

Zero Order Glow & Rainbows

This article explores the phenomenon of the zero order glow, a radiant glow in the sky that occurs when rain is falling and a rainbow is present. It delves into the intricacies of light interaction with raindrops and explains why the zero order glow manifests as a glow rather than a rainbow.

OPOD - Babinet & Coronae

This article explores the formation of coronae, rings of light surrounding a central source, and their connection to Babinet's Principle and telescopes. It delves into the diffraction and interference patterns created by droplets or ice crystals in the atmosphere, offering captivating visual representations of these phenomena.

OPOD - Reflection Rainbows

This article explores the mesmerizing world of reflection rainbows, delving into their unique properties and the intricate interplay between light rays and water droplets. It highlights the scientific and artistic significance of these captivating optical phenomena.

Cloudbow and glory, Oahu, Hawaiifogbow

This article explores the enchanting atmospheric phenomenon of the cloudbow and glory in Oahu, Hawaii, discussing their formation, colors, and the beauty of nature's optical illusions. It invites readers to appreciate the captivating display of colors and light in the sky and encourages them to keep their eyes on the skies when visiting Oahu.

Potomac in the skies

This article explores the captivating phenomenon of the Potomac River appearing in the clouds, showcasing the interplay between sunlight, water, and atmospheric particles. It highlights the beauty and complexity of atmospheric optics and the wonders of our natural world.

Warsaw halos, 46deg halos and supralateral arcs

This article explores the mesmerizing display of Warsaw halos, 46° halos, and supralateral arcs, delving into their formation, characteristics, and distinguishing features. Witness the enchanting dance of light and color in the sky as sunlight interacts with ice prisms, creating a captivating celestial spectacle.