Versailles Corona & Rays - OPOD

Last updated on September 16, 2023

Versailles Corona & Rays - OPOD: A Spectacular Atmospheric Phenomenon

When exploring the enchanting Palace of Versailles in France, one might stumble upon a breathtaking sight. Denis Joye, an avid cyclist and photographer, captured a mesmerizing scene at the Grand Canal, where morning mist and shadows dance in harmony. This captivating image not only showcases the beauty of Versailles but also highlights a fascinating atmospheric optics phenomenon: the Versailles Corona & Rays.

As the sun's rays gently pierce through the autumnal mist, they encounter tiny droplets suspended in the air. These mist droplets act as miniature prisms, causing the light to diffract and create a magnificent corona. The corona appears as a large and delicate halo encircling the sun, adding an ethereal touch to the already enchanting landscape.

In addition to the corona, another intriguing feature visible in Joye's photograph is the presence of rays emanating from the sun. These rays, known as crepuscular rays or sunbeams, appear to radiate fan-wise from the sun's position. Although our brains may deceive us into perceiving these rays as diverging, they are, in fact, parallel. The shadows cast by the trees further enhance this illusion, creating a captivating visual effect.

To better understand the Versailles Corona & Rays phenomenon, let's delve into the science behind it:

1. Diffraction: Mist droplets act as tiny prisms, causing the light to diffract or bend as it passes through them. This bending of light creates the corona, which appears as a series of concentric circles around the sun.

2. Interference: When diffracted light waves interact with each other, they can either reinforce or cancel each other out. This interference pattern gives rise to the distinct colors and intensity variations observed within the corona.

3. Size of Droplets: The size of the mist droplets plays a crucial role in determining the appearance of the corona. Smaller droplets tend to produce larger coronas with more distinct colors, while larger droplets may result in smaller, less vibrant coronas.

4. Shadow Play: The parallel shadows cast by the trees further enhance the illusion of diverging rays. Our brains interpret these shadows as evidence of the rays radiating fan-wise from the sun, adding to the visual intrigue.

The Versailles Corona & Rays phenomenon serves as a reminder of the beauty and complexity of atmospheric optics. Nature's interplay of light, mist, and shadows creates a visual spectacle that captivates and inspires. Whether you're exploring the grounds of Versailles or simply observing the world around you, keep an eye out for these remarkable atmospheric phenomena that remind us of the wonders of our natural world.

In conclusion, Denis Joye's photograph of the Grand Canal at Versailles showcases not only the beauty of this iconic location but also the mesmerizing Versailles Corona & Rays phenomenon. Through diffraction and interference, mist droplets transform sunlight into a delicate corona, while parallel shadows create the illusion of diverging rays. These captivating atmospheric optics phenomena remind us of the intricate nature of light and its interaction with our atmosphere. So, next time you find yourself surrounded by mist and shadows, take a moment to appreciate the enchanting interplay of light and nature's magic.

Autumnal Versailles

Denis Joye captured this scene of morning mist and shadows while cycling around the Grand Canal at the Palace of Versailles, France.

Mist droplets have diffracted the Autumnal light to form a large and delicate corona (small drops). Trees cast their shadows, as always parallel but to our easily deceived brains radiating fan wise.

©Denis Joye, shown with permission

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