These celestial patterns, usually showing as luminous rings or arcs, are optical phenomena ensuing from the interplay of sunshine with ice crystals suspended within the environment. A typical manifestation is noticed surrounding the solar or moon, presenting as a shiny halo. This impact happens when mild is refracted and mirrored by hexagonal ice crystals inside cirrus or cirrostratus clouds.
The remark of those atmospheric occurrences supplies helpful insights into atmospheric circumstances, particularly the presence, form, and orientation of ice crystals at excessive altitudes. Traditionally, their look has been interpreted as an indication of approaching climate modifications, although trendy meteorology presents extra exact predictive instruments. Their aesthetic attraction has additionally captivated observers for hundreds of years, inspiring inventive and cultural interpretations throughout numerous societies.
