Sunset Pillar, South Carolina - OPOD

Last updated on September 16, 2023

Sunset Pillar: A Captivating Atmospheric Phenomenon in South Carolina

Sunset Pillar, captured by Benton Henry in South Carolina, USA, is a mesmerizing example of an ice halo. Ice halos are optical phenomena that occur when light interacts with ice crystals in the atmosphere. What makes sunset pillars unique among ice halos is that they are only visible when the ice crystals responsible for their formation are extremely misaligned.

Typically, sun pillars are created by glints of light reflecting off plate-like ice crystals found in cirrus or altostratus clouds. However, in very cold weather conditions, low-level diamond dust crystals can also produce intense pillars. These plate-like crystals wobble several degrees from their horizontal position, and the degree of wobbling directly influences the height of the pillar.

The crystals responsible for forming sunset pillars are relatively large and often resemble snowflakes. Although the sketch provided is an idealization, it helps illustrate the wobbling motion of these crystals. When sunlight interacts with these crystals, it can either reflect externally from the lower hexagonal faces or internally from their upper faces.

Despite their name, sunset pillars are not actual beams of light shooting upwards. Instead, they create an illusion through the glints of light that reach our eyes from millions of ice crystals suspended in the atmosphere. It is this interplay of light and ice that gives rise to the captivating spectacle observed in Benton Henry's photograph.

As with many atmospheric phenomena, the appearance of sunset pillars can vary depending on the specific conditions present at the time. Factors such as temperature, humidity, and the size and shape of the ice crystals all contribute to the unique characteristics of each pillar. This variability adds to the allure and mystique surrounding these natural wonders.

Sunset pillars are relatively rare occurrences, making them a special treat for those fortunate enough to witness them. Their fleeting nature and ethereal beauty make them a favorite subject for photographers and sky enthusiasts alike. Capturing the perfect shot of a sunset pillar requires both patience and a keen eye for atmospheric optics.

In conclusion, Sunset Pillar, South Carolina - OPOD, showcases a stunning example of an ice halo phenomenon. These pillars are formed by misaligned ice crystals that reflect sunlight, creating an illusion of upward beams of light. The interplay between light and ice in the atmosphere produces a captivating display that varies in appearance based on environmental conditions. Witnessing a sunset pillar is a rare and enchanting experience, reminding us of the remarkable beauty found in our natural world.

Sunset Pillar ~ Ice halo imaged by Benton Henry (Photography) in South Carolina, USA.

©Benton Henry Photography 2014

Sun pillars are unusual among the ice halos in that they are only seen when the ice crystals producing them are very poorly aligned.

Most pillars are produced by glints from plate habit crystals in cirrus or altostratus cloud. In very cold weather, low level diamond dust crystals can give intense pillars.

The plates wobble several degrees from horizontal. the greater the wobble the taller the pillar.

Pillar forming crystals wobble because they are large and even tending towards snowflake shapes. Those in the sketch are idealisations!

Sunlight reflects externally from the lower hexagonal faces of plates or internally from their upper faces.

The pillar is an illusion. There is no upward beam of light, only the glints towards the eye from millions of ice crystals.

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!