Winter Halos

Last updated on September 16, 2023

Winter Halos: A Stunning Atmospheric Phenomenon

During the winter months, the skies can often showcase breathtaking optical displays known as winter halos. These captivating phenomena occur when light interacts with ice crystals suspended in the atmosphere, creating a spectacle of colors and shapes. While most people are familiar with rainbows, winter halos offer a different kind of visual delight. In this article, we will delve deeper into the enchanting world of winter halos, exploring their various forms and shedding light on the science behind their formation.

The Parhelic Circle: A Subtle but Spectacular Halo

One of the most fascinating elements of a winter halo display is the parhelic circle. Often mistaken for clouds due to its almost colorless appearance, the parhelic circle is a massive halo that encircles the sky at the same height as the sun. While it may seem simple in form, the creation of the parhelic circle involves more ray paths than any other halo. This intricate web of light beams interacts with ice crystals to produce this awe-inspiring phenomenon.

Sundogs: Brilliant Mirrors of Light

Accompanying the parhelic circle are sundogs, which are vibrant patches of light that appear on either side of the sun. Sundogs, also known as parhelia, are formed when sunlight passes through hexagonal ice crystals in the atmosphere. These crystals act as prisms, bending the light and creating a stunning display of colors. Sundogs typically appear as bright spots with a reddish hue on the side of the sun, adding to the overall enchantment of winter halo sightings.

The 22-Degree Halo: A Circular Wonder

Another prominent feature of winter halos is the 22-degree halo. As its name suggests, this halo forms a perfect circle around the sun, positioned at an angle of 22 degrees from its center. The 22-degree halo is caused by the refraction and reflection of light within hexagonal ice crystals. These crystals act as miniature prisms, bending the sunlight and producing the circular halo effect. The halo often appears with a reddish outer edge and a bluish inner edge, creating a captivating contrast against the winter sky.

Understanding the Science behind Winter Halos

To fully appreciate the beauty of winter halos, it is important to understand the science behind their formation. The intricate dance of light and ice crystals creates these stunning optical phenomena. When sunlight interacts with hexagonal ice crystals in the atmosphere, it undergoes refraction and reflection. This bending and bouncing of light rays result in the various halos seen during winter. The specific angles and shapes of the ice crystals determine the type and appearance of each halo, adding to the uniqueness of each winter halo display.

Unveiling the Wonders of Winter Halos

While winter halos are truly mesmerizing, they are not exclusive to cold climates. These enchanting displays can occur in various parts of the world where ice crystals are present in the atmosphere. However, they are more commonly observed during the winter months when colder temperatures allow for the formation of these ice crystals. Whether you find yourself in a snowy wonderland or a chilly cityscape, keep an eye on the sky during winter, and you may be lucky enough to witness these magical halos firsthand.

Capturing Winter Halos: A Photographer's Delight

For photographers, winter halos offer a unique opportunity to capture stunning images. The interplay of light and ice crystals creates a visual spectacle that can be immortalized through the lens. To capture the full glory of winter halos, it is important to choose the right settings and techniques. Adjusting exposure levels, utilizing filters, and experimenting with different angles can help photographers create truly remarkable images that showcase the ethereal beauty of these atmospheric phenomena.

A Deeper Appreciation of Nature's Artistry

Winter halos serve as a reminder of the intricate and awe-inspiring beauty of the natural world. These optical phenomena offer a glimpse into the hidden workings of light and ice crystals, showcasing the elegance and complexity of nature's artistry. As we marvel at the sight of winter halos, let us take a moment to appreciate the wonders that surround us and the mysteries that continue to unfold above our heads.

This idyllic winter scene was pictured by Angel Langmuir at Collingwood Ontario, Canada.

The red edged 22° halo, the sundog and the sun itself are cut through by the parhelic circle.

The parhelic circle is almost colourless and for that reason is often not easy to distinguish from cloud. In its complete form it is a huge halo that circles the sky at the same height as the sun. Although it appears of simple form, more ray paths go into its formation than any other halo.

parhelic circle

sundog

22 degree halo

Image ©Angel Langmuir , shown with permission.

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Reference Atmospheric Optics

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