Sundog, Whistler BC Canada

Last updated on September 16, 2023

Sundog, Whistler BC Canada: A Stunning Atmospheric Phenomenon

Whistler, located in British Columbia, Canada, is not only known for its world-class skiing and breathtaking mountain views but also for its captivating atmospheric optics phenomena. One such phenomenon that often graces the skies above Whistler is the sundog. Sundogs, also known as parhelia, are mesmerizing optical illusions that occur when sunlight interacts with ice crystals in the atmosphere. These radiant displays of light create stunning halo-like formations on either side of the sun, adding a touch of magic to the already picturesque landscape.

Understanding Sundogs

Sundogs are formed when sunlight passes through ice crystals suspended in the air. These ice crystals act as tiny prisms, refracting and bending the sunlight. As a result, the light is separated into its component colors, creating a colorful display. Sundogs typically appear as two bright spots of light on either side of the sun, accompanied by a halo around the sun itself.

The Science Behind Sundogs

To fully appreciate the beauty of sundogs, it's important to understand the science behind them. Sundogs occur when the sun is relatively low in the sky, usually less than 45 degrees above the horizon. This positioning allows the sunlight to pass through a greater portion of the atmosphere, increasing the likelihood of interaction with ice crystals.

The ice crystals responsible for forming sundogs are often found in high-altitude clouds, such as cirrus clouds. These clouds are composed of tiny ice particles that are shaped like hexagonal plates or columns. When sunlight encounters these ice crystals, it undergoes refraction and dispersion, resulting in the separation of colors and the creation of sundogs.

The Beauty of Whistler's Sundogs

Whistler's unique geographical location and mountainous terrain provide the perfect backdrop for observing sundogs. As sunlight filters through the icy air, the crystals above Whistler's majestic peaks create a spectacle of vibrant colors. The sundogs appear as brilliant patches of light on either side of the sun, often accompanied by other atmospheric optical phenomena such as Parry arcs and supralateral arcs.

Parry and Supralateral Arcs

In addition to sundogs, visitors to Whistler may also be treated to the sight of Parry arcs and supralateral arcs. Parry arcs are curved bands of light that appear tangent to the sundogs, forming an arc-shaped halo around the sun. These arcs are caused by the refraction and reflection of sunlight within the ice crystals.

Supralateral arcs, on the other hand, are less common but equally captivating. These arcs form parallel to the horizon, intersecting the sundogs at their highest point. Like Parry arcs, supralateral arcs are created by the interaction of sunlight with ice crystals in the atmosphere.

Capturing the Magic

For photographers and nature enthusiasts alike, witnessing and capturing the beauty of sundogs in Whistler is a truly magical experience. The vibrant colors, intricate formations, and ever-changing nature of these optical phenomena make for captivating photographs. To capture the essence of sundogs, it is best to use a wide-angle lens and experiment with different exposures to bring out the richness of colors and details.

Conclusion

Whistler, British Columbia, is not only a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts but also a haven for those who appreciate the wonders of atmospheric optics. Sundogs, with their ethereal beauty and mesmerizing displays of light, add an extra touch of enchantment to the already stunning landscape. So, if you find yourself in Whistler on a clear day with the sun low in the sky, keep your eyes peeled for these celestial wonders. Witnessing a sundog in all its glory is an experience that will leave you in awe of nature's captivating secrets.

Sundog at Whistler - Blackcomb Mountain, BC, Canada. Sometimes sundogs are blindingly bright. This one was part of a complex display (image) including Parry and supralateral arcs seen by Lynn Fink on 16th January 2002 with the sun 20° high. Images ©Lynn Fink, shown with permission.

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Reference Atmospheric Optics

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