Nature has an uncanny way of painting the sky with awe-inspiring wonders, and one such phenomenon is the elusive 22° halo. Delighting both astronomers and casual observers alike, the 22° halo is an atmospheric optical spectacle that graces the heavens with a captivating halo, boasting an apparent radius of approximately 22° around the Sun.
Recently, the skies above Bangalore treated lucky onlookers to a mesmerizing display of this phenomenon, as masterfully captured by the keen eye of Tushar Goyal. The celestial marvel, often considered a cousin of the more familiar rainbow, is created through the intricate interplay of light and ice crystals suspended in the Earth’s atmosphere.
The mechanics behind the 22° halo are fascinating. As sunlight infiltrates these tiny ice crystals, the light undergoes intricate refractions and reflections within the crystals. This optical dance bends the light at specific angles, ultimately forming a halo with a radius of about 22°. The result is a breathtaking circular band of light encircling the Sun, leaving those fortunate enough to witness it in awe of the natural world’s artistic prowess.
Tushar Goyal’s snapshot of the Bangalore sky adorned with the 22° halo serves as a vivid reminder of the beauty that resides just above our heads. It’s a testament to the fact that even amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life, moments of wonder and magic await us in the boundless canvas of the sky.
As we continue to delve into the mysteries of the universe, phenomena like the 22° halo remind us that there are still countless enigmas left to unravel. So, the next time you gaze upward and catch a glimpse of the radiant halo gracing the solar orb, take a moment to appreciate the science and splendor that collaborate to gift us such breathtaking displays.
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