Sunrise Mirage

Last updated on September 26, 2023

Sunrise Mirage: A Fascinating Optical Phenomenon

Have you ever witnessed a breathtaking sunrise that seemed to defy reality? A sunrise mirage is a mesmerizing atmospheric optics phenomenon that occurs when the sun's rays refract through multiple layers of air at different temperatures. This refraction leads to distortions and illusions, creating a visual spectacle that captivates the beholder. In this article, we will delve into the intriguing world of sunrise mirages, exploring temperature inversions, mock mirages, and even the elusive green flashes.

Understanding Temperature Inversions

To comprehend the magic behind sunrise mirages, it is essential to grasp the concept of temperature inversions. Typically, the temperature of the atmosphere decreases with increasing altitude. However, during a temperature inversion, this natural temperature gradient is inverted, resulting in cooler air near the surface and warmer air above it. Temperature inversions often occur during clear and calm nights when the Earth's surface cools rapidly through radiation.

The Role of Refraction in Sunrise Mirages

When the sun rises above the horizon, its rays pass through layers of air with varying temperatures due to temperature inversions. As light travels through these different air densities, it undergoes refraction, causing the path of the light to bend. This bending of light is responsible for the enchanting distortions observed in sunrise mirages. The refraction is more pronounced when the temperature inversion is stronger, leading to more remarkable mirages.

Unveiling the Mystery of Mock Mirages

One particular type of sunrise mirage is known as a "mock mirage." Mock mirages are characterized by their deceptive appearance, often resembling an inverted or elongated image of the sun. These mirages occur when there are strong temperature inversions with unusually cool air near the Earth's surface. The cooled surface then cools the air in contact with it, creating a stark contrast between the cooler air near the surface and the warmer air above. This stark temperature difference causes the sun's rays to refract dramatically, resulting in the illusionary distortions observed in mock mirages.

Green Flashes: Nature's Astonishing Finale

In some instances, sunrise mirages can offer an extraordinary spectacle known as green flashes. Green flashes are fleeting bursts of green light that appear just above the upper tip of the sun. These flashes occur due to the bending of sunlight as it passes through the Earth's atmosphere. The atmosphere acts as a prism, separating sunlight into its component colors. As the sun sets or rises, the longer wavelengths, such as red and orange, are scattered away, leaving only the shorter green and blue wavelengths to be observed. Green flashes are rare phenomena that require specific atmospheric conditions and a keen eye to witness.

The Beauty of Sunrise Mirages

Sunrise mirages are a testament to the beauty and complexity of our atmosphere. They remind us of the ever-changing nature of light and the intricate interplay between temperature, air density, and refraction. These optical illusions captivate our imagination, inviting us to appreciate the wonders that lie beyond our everyday perception.

Exploring Further

If you're eager to learn more about sunrise mirages and other atmospheric optics phenomena, there are numerous resources available. Books such as "Atmospheric Optics" by C. Bohren and "Light and Color in the Outdoors" by M. Minnaert provide in-depth explanations and stunning visual examples. Additionally, websites like Atmospheric Optics (https://old.atoptics.co.uk/) offer a wealth of information, including photographs and explanations of various atmospheric phenomena.

Conclusion

Witnessing a sunrise mirage is like stepping into a world where reality bends and twists. These captivating optical illusions are a result of temperature inversions and the bending of light through layers of air with varying temperatures. Mock mirages and green flashes add an extra layer of intrigue to this already fascinating phenomenon. So, the next time you find yourself gazing at the sunrise, keep your eyes open for the mesmerizing distortions that may unfold before you.

Scott Carlin (Fine Art Photography) caught this ever changing distorted sun on the morning of 13th April. ©Scott Carlin, shown with permission.

Refraction of the sun’s rays through multiple layers of air at different temperatures produce the distortions.

This “mock-mirage” is a sign of temperature inversions with unusually cooler air at lower levels. During the night the earth's surface cools by radiation to a clear sky. The cooled surface in turn cools air in contact with it. Strong versions of mock-mirages have green flashes at the upper tip.

Sunset and sunrise mirages

Temperature inversions

Mock mirages

Green flashes

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Reference Atmospheric Optics

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