Sky Wide Rays, Iran

Last updated on September 16, 2023

Sky Wide Rays: A Phenomenon in Iran's Skies

The skies of Iran often showcase a mesmerizing atmospheric phenomenon known as "Sky Wide Rays." These rays create a captivating display of light and shadow, casting long, straight, and parallel shadows across the sky. The effect is particularly prominent during sunset when distant clouds cast dark shadows that seemingly converge directly opposite the sun.

When observing the sky wide rays phenomenon, one can notice how perspective comes into play. Despite the shadows appearing to converge at a single point, known as the antisolar point, they can extend for vast distances, sometimes spanning over a hundred miles or more. This optical illusion is a result of our perception and the way light interacts with the atmosphere.

The interplay of light and shadow gives rise to two distinct types of rays. On the left side of the sky, we have "crepuscular rays," which are visible beams of sunlight streaming through gaps in the clouds. As these rays traverse the atmosphere, they interact with dust particles and other airborne particles, scattering the shorter blue wavelengths of light and allowing the longer red wavelengths to reach our eyes.

On the right side of the sky, we encounter a phenomenon called "anticrepuscular rays." These rays are essentially the continuation of the crepuscular rays on the opposite side of the sky. Due to perspective, they appear to converge towards the antisolar point. The antisolar point is the position in the sky directly opposite to where the sun is located.

To understand the formation of these sky wide rays, we need to consider the role of atmospheric scattering. The scattering of sunlight by particles in the atmosphere causes light to change direction, leading to the diffusion of sunlight in different directions. This scattering phenomenon is responsible for the beautiful colors we witness during sunrise and sunset, as well as the creation of crepuscular and anticrepuscular rays.

The dark shadows cast by distant clouds allow the blue light of the higher atmosphere to pass through. This creates a stark contrast between the shadowed areas and the illuminated regions, enhancing the visibility of the rays. As a result, the sky wide rays become more pronounced and captivating to the observer.

The occurrence of sky wide rays is not limited to Iran alone. These atmospheric optics phenomena can be observed in various locations around the world. However, the unique geography and atmospheric conditions of Iran contribute to the frequency and intensity of this spectacle in its skies.

In conclusion, the sky wide rays phenomenon in Iran's skies is a breathtaking display of light and shadow. It is a result of the interplay between sunlight, atmospheric scattering, and perspective. The convergence of shadows at the antisolar point, along with the contrasting colors and long shadows, create a visually stunning experience for those fortunate enough to witness it. So, if you find yourself in Iran during sunset, make sure to look up and marvel at the captivating beauty of sky wide rays.

Across the Sky

An all sky image from Iran taken by Amir Abolfath - site, TWAN.

Sunset is at left. Distant clouds throw dark shadows across the sky to apparently converge

directly opposite the sun.

The dark shadowed air lets through the blue light of the higher atmosphere. "Crepuscular rays" at left become "anticrepuscular" a right.

Long straight and parallel shadows cross the sky. Sometimes a hundred miles or more long.

Perspective plays its trick to make them seem to converge at the antisolar point.

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Reference Atmospheric Optics

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