Spokane WA Circumhorizon Arc I

Last updated on September 16, 2023

Spokane WA Circumhorizon Arc I: A Spectacular Atmospheric Phenomenon

The Spokane display of June 3, 2006, will forever be etched in the memories of those fortunate enough to witness it. This remarkable event showcased one of the brightest and most widely observed circumhorizon arcs ever recorded. The arc was so captivating that it brought a Cystic Fibrosis walk at Gonzaga University & Centennial Park to a standstill for quite some time. Let's delve deeper into this extraordinary atmospheric optics phenomenon and explore the intricacies of the Spokane WA Circumhorizon Arc I.

What is a Circumhorizon Arc?

A circumhorizon arc, also known as a fire rainbow, is a stunning optical phenomenon that occurs in the Earth's atmosphere. It is a type of halo formed by the refraction and dispersion of sunlight through ice crystals in cirrus clouds. Unlike other halos that form around the Sun or Moon, circumhorizon arcs appear as vibrant, colorful arcs that stretch horizontally across the sky.

The Science Behind the Phenomenon

To understand how a circumhorizon arc forms, we need to grasp the role of ice crystals in the process. These ice crystals act as tiny prisms, bending and splitting sunlight into its constituent colors. When sunlight enters an ice crystal at a specific angle, it undergoes refraction and dispersion, resulting in the formation of a circumhorizon arc.

The key factor that distinguishes circumhorizon arcs from other halos is the orientation of the ice crystals. In order for a circumhorizon arc to manifest, the ice crystals must be plate-shaped and horizontally aligned. This alignment allows sunlight to enter the crystals at just the right angle to produce the stunning display of colors.

Spectacular Display in Spokane

The Spokane WA Circumhorizon Arc I on June 3, 2006, was an exceptional event that captivated the residents of the city. Sue Wild-Kirn, who captured the moment during a Cystic Fibrosis walk at Gonzaga University & Centennial Park, described how the arc brought the walk to a halt. Its breathtaking beauty and vibrant colors mesmerized onlookers, creating a sense of awe and wonder.

The brightness and widespread visibility of the Spokane WA Circumhorizon Arc I make it a noteworthy occurrence in the realm of atmospheric optics. It is rare to witness such a vivid and expansive display of a circumhorizon arc, which is why this event holds a special place in the hearts of those who experienced it.

Factors Influencing the Visibility

Several factors contribute to the visibility and intensity of a circumhorizon arc. These include:

• Latitude: Circumhorizon arcs are more commonly observed in locations closer to the equator, where the Sun reaches higher altitudes in the sky.
• Time of Year: The angle at which sunlight enters the ice crystals plays a significant role. During summer months, when the Sun is higher in the sky, circumhorizon arcs are more likely to occur.
• Cloud Coverage: Clear skies are essential for witnessing a circumhorizon arc. If the sky is overcast or filled with thick clouds, the arc may not be visible.
• Altitude of Cirrus Clouds: The height at which cirrus clouds are present influences the likelihood of a circumhorizon arc. These clouds are typically found at high altitudes, between 20,000 and 40,000 feet.

Capturing the Beauty

Photographing a circumhorizon arc can be challenging due to its vast size and fleeting nature. However, with the right equipment and timing, it is possible to capture the stunning beauty of this atmospheric phenomenon. To photograph a circumhorizon arc:

1. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the entire arc.
2. Position yourself in an open area with an unobstructed view of the sky.
3. Look for cirrus clouds at high altitudes.
4. Be patient and wait for the optimal angle of sunlight to create the arc.
5. Adjust camera settings to capture the vibrant colors and details.

Conclusion

The Spokane WA Circumhorizon Arc I of June 3, 2006, stands as a testament to the awe-inspiring wonders of atmospheric optics. This remarkable event showcased one of the brightest and most widely observed circumhorizon arcs ever recorded. Understanding the science behind this phenomenon, as well as the factors influencing its visibility, allows us to appreciate the rarity and beauty of these optical displays. Whether you are fortunate enough to witness a circumhorizon arc firsthand or capture it through photography, the experience is sure to leave an indelible mark on your memory. So, keep your eyes on the sky, for you never know when the next extraordinary atmospheric phenomenon will grace our presence.

The Spokane display of June 3, 2006 will probably rank as one of the brightest and most widely observed circumhorizon arcs. Sue Wild-Kirn took this during a Cystic Fibrosis walk at Gonzaga University & Centennial Park. " The arc literally brought the walk to a halt for quite some time!" Image ©Sue Wild-Kirn , shown with permission.

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

If you use any of the definitions, information, or data presented on Atmospheric Optics, please copy the link or reference below to properly credit us as the reference source. Thank you!