OPOD - Subsuns, Pillars & Parhelion

Last updated on September 16, 2023

OPOD - Subsuns, Pillars & Parhelion

When it comes to atmospheric optics, there are some fascinating phenomena that can occur. One such phenomenon is the occurrence of subsuns, pillars, and parhelion. These optical effects are caused by the reflection and refraction of sunlight by ice crystals in the atmosphere. In this article, we will delve into the details of subsuns, pillars, and parhelion, and explore the mesmerizing images captured by Hamlyn G Jones in the French Alps.

The Brightness of Subsuns

Subsuns are incredibly bright and captivating to behold. They are formed by the direct reflection of the sun's light by millions of tiny mirrors. These mirrors are actually the upper or lower faces of hexagonal plate crystals. In the case captured by Hamlyn G Jones, these crystals were drifting in the -20 Celsius air, aligning themselves horizontally due to drag forces.

The Formation of Sun Pillars

Within this arrangement of ice crystals, some larger ones may wobble slightly from the horizontal position. When sunlight reflects off these crystals, it creates a vertical column of light known as a sun pillar. This pillar extends from the subsun up to the sun itself, adding an ethereal element to the atmospheric display.

The Enigmatic Sundog

Alongside the subsun and sun pillar, another optical phenomenon known as a sundog can be observed. Sundogs are formed by the refraction of sunlight through near-vertical side faces of the same plate crystals. In the images captured by Hamlyn G Jones, a sundog can be seen at the lower right corner. The sundog appears as a bright spot of light with a halo-like glow surrounding it.

The Blue Glow Mystery

In addition to these captivating optical effects, there is also a mysterious blue glow visible in one of the images. This blue glow is actually a lens reflection caused by the interaction of light with the camera lens. While it may initially appear puzzling, it adds an intriguing element to the overall composition of the photograph.

Exploring Atmospheric Optics

The images captured by Hamlyn G Jones provide a glimpse into the fascinating world of atmospheric optics. These optical phenomena, such as subsuns, sun pillars, and sundogs, are a result of the interaction between sunlight and ice crystals suspended in the atmosphere. By understanding the science behind these phenomena, we can appreciate the beauty and complexity of our natural world.

Conclusion

In conclusion, subsuns, pillars, and parhelion are awe-inspiring atmospheric optics phenomena that occur due to the reflection and refraction of sunlight by ice crystals. The brightness of subsuns, the formation of sun pillars, and the enigmatic appearance of sundogs all contribute to the mesmerizing display captured by Hamlyn G Jones in the French Alps. These images serve as a reminder of the intricacies and wonders of our atmosphere, inviting us to explore and appreciate the beauty that surrounds us.

Subsun, Sun Pillar & Sundog

Images by Hamlyn G Jones at Champagny en Vanoise in the French Alps. ©Hamlyn G Jones, shown with permission

Subsuns can be unbelievably bright. They are a direct reflection of the sun by millions of tiny mirrors. Each mirror is the upper or lower face of an hexagonal plate crystal. The crystals, in this case drifting in the nearby -20 Celsius air, are aligned by drag forces with their large faces nearly horizontal.

Some larger crystals wobble a few degrees from horizontal. Reflections from them form the sun pillar extending from the subsun up to the sun.

Rays refracted between to near vertical side faces of the same plate crystals formed the sundog at lower right. The blue glow lower down is a lens reflection.

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