Atmospheric Optics

Discover the ideal conditions for spotting a lunar rainbow. This guide covers moon phases, dark adaptation, and location tips for night-time observers.

Learn how do 22 degree halos form when sunlight refracts through hexagonal ice prisms in cirrus clouds. Explore the science behind this optical effect.

Learn how does the aurora borealis form through the interaction of solar wind and the magnetosphere.

Learn how do mirages form through light bending and thermal inversions. Understand the science behind desert illusions and Arctic superior images.

Learn how do rainbows form when sunlight interacts with water droplets through refraction and reflection.

Wondering how do fallstreak clouds form? Learn how supercooled water droplets and aircraft triggers create these unique hole punch cloud gaps and virga.

Polar stratospheric clouds form in extreme cold below -78°C and influence ozone depletion. Learn how these nacreous clouds develop and glow in the sky.

The anthelion phenomenon is a rare white light spot opposite the sun. Use this guide to understand how ice crystals create it in the Australian sky.

Lunar and solar coronas form through light diffraction in thin clouds. Learn how water droplets create these colourful rings and how to spot them.

Learn how a circumhorizontal arc forms when sunlight refracts through plate-shaped ice crystals in cirrus clouds, and where Australian skywatchers are.

Learn why sun dogs Australia appear as bright spots in the sky. Understand how ice crystal refraction creates these stunning parhelia and mock suns.

A 22-degree solar halo forms when light refracts through hexagonal ice crystals in high clouds. Spot these colourful rings across Australian skies.