ROCHESTER, N.Y. — From time to time, it is worth taking a moment to look up at the sky as you may catch a glimpse of something unusual. Atmospheric optics can produce fascinating visual effects, many of which are not always easy to explain.
Recently, a viewer shared a photo of a ring surrounding the moon. This phenomenon is known as a halo. Halos can form around any bright light source, most commonly the moon or the sun, when conditions in the atmosphere are just right.
Another optical effect meteorologists observe is iridescence, which can produce subtle rainbow-like colors. This typically occurs on thin clouds and can even be seen during a warm summer day. Despite the warmth at the surface, temperatures at altitudes of 20,000 to 25,000 feet are cold enough to support the formation of ice crystals within thin, wispy cirrus clouds.
These ice crystals play a key role in creating these visual displays. As light from the sun or moon passes through hexagonal-shaped ice crystals, it is bent or refracted at specific angles. In the case of a halo, the light is commonly refracted at approximately 22 degrees, producing the familiar ring shape when viewed from the ground at the right angle.
If you plan to observe these phenomena during the day, it is important to take precautions. Looking directly at the sun can be harmful to your eyes, so wearing proper eye protection, such as sunglasses that block ultraviolet rays, is essential. Even better, try to position yourself so that the sun is partially blocked from direct view.
Atmospheric optics like halos and iridescence are a reminder that even on ordinary days, the sky can offer something extraordinary.
First Alert Weather In-Depth: Understanding halos and atmospheric optics WHEC.com.
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