Parhelion: An Unusual Sky Phenomenon That Needs to Be Seen
Have you ever noticed how the Sun is surrounded by additional bright points of light in the sky? We refer to this phenomena as a parhelion. It results from a unique interaction between air ice crystals and sunlight. It is a remarkable aspect of nature that merits consideration, not magic.
A parhelion: what is it?
An optical phenomena known as a parhelion occurs when brilliant spots surround the Sun. The appearance of several suns in the sky is produced by these dots. This phenomena, which has nothing to do with fiction or fantasy, happens when sunlight is refracted by ice crystals in the sky.
What causes a parhelion to form?
Crystals of ice in the atmosphere
Cirrostratus clouds, which are high-altitude clouds with ice crystals, exhibit a parhelion. By refracting light, these crystals function as prisms, producing bright spots that resemble additional suns next to the primary sun.
Sunlight refraction
Sunlight rays refract at a specific angle (often about 22 degrees) as they travel through the ice crystals. As a result, the sun’s sides become brilliant patches.
The prerequisites for a parhelion
Since there are more ice crystals in the atmosphere during the winter, a parhelion is most frequently observed during this season. These circumstances can also arise in frigid climates when the air temperature is conducive to ice crystal production.
Where and when is a parhelion visible?
Certain atmospheric conditions must exist in order to witness a parhelion. The winter months or regions with cool climates where cirrostratus clouds are present in the atmosphere are the greatest times to see it. The phenomena is most obvious when it happens around sunrise or sunset, when the sun is lower on the horizon.
In brief
A parhelion is a remarkable natural occurrence that is worth witnessing. It is the ideal illustration of how physical processes in nature can produce breathtaking visual effects. You will undoubtedly recognize the beauty and singularity of the environment around you if you are fortunate enough to see a parhelion.
