As the sun goes down, the angle projected by the light next to the surface tends to flatten out towards 180º. If we look at our own shadow, we can see how it becomes longer and longer. On flat, unobstructed surfaces, the shadow can extend to great distances. The phenomenon known as the Brocken spectre, named after the Brocken Mountain, 1142 meters above sea level, located in the Harz Mountains, Germany.
Mountaineers visiting this area can observe, at dusk, with the sun at their backs, its silhouette projected in the commonly present fog. Occasionally, the sun's rays create a rainbow-like halo around the shadow. This spectacular image is what is known as the Brocken spectre.
Why is it so curious?
The peculiarity of Brocken spectre lies in that can only be observed by the person whose shadow is projected. No matter how many people are around, each individual only sees their own colored halo, while the shadows of others remain just that: shadows. Another fascinating aspect of the phenomenon is that the shadow doesn't appear as a prone figure, but is reflected in the fog, giving the impression that the human silhouette is standing.
It should be noted that, although the phenomenon is originally from the Brocken Mountain, can be observed elsewhere, under similar conditions. In ancient times, this phenomenon wasn't simply considered an optical effect. Halos were often considered divine signs, indicating that a person had been chosen for a special purpose.
The science behind the phenomenon
El Brocken spectre It is an optical phenomenon that occurs when sunlight shines from behind the observer. In this scenario, the mountaineer must stand in a high place, such as a ridge or peak, looking down on a layer of clouds or fog. shadow of the observer It is projected forward through the cloud, and due to perspective, this shadow often takes on a triangular shape. The apparent magnification of the shadow is an optical illusion, caused by the relative proximity of the cloud compared to distant objects on the ground.
The movement of the cloud layer and variations in fog density can make the shadow appear to move, adding an ethereal touch to the visual spectacle. The head of the projected figure is often surrounded by bright rings of light, called halos or glories, which appear directly opposite the sun when light rays refract and diffract through the tiny water droplets that make up the cloud.
Conditions necessary to observe the Brocken spectrum
In order to observe this phenomenon, it is crucial that certain conditions are met:
- The sun should be low on the horizon, usually at sunrise or sunset.
- The observer should be in an elevated position, such as the top of a mountain.
- There must be a layer of clouds or fog below the observer.
Only under these conditions can the observer's shadow be projected in such a way that the characteristic optical effect of the Brocken spectreThis phenomenon has been observed not only in Germany, but also in other parts of the world, especially in mountainous regions where fog is common.
Airplane pilots often report seeing the Brocken ghosts during their flights, when they are above the cloud layer. The shadows cast by the aircraft create effects similar to those of the ghost on the mountains.
A look at the history of the Brocken spectre
The first observations of the Brocken spectre They date back to 1736, during an expedition to the Peruvian Andes, and were documented by Charles Marie de La Condamine and Pierre Bouguer. Later, Johann Esaias Silberschlag, a German pastor and natural scientist, described the phenomenon in 1780.
In Chinese culture, the phenomenon is known as the "Light of Buddha." It has been observed on high, cloud-covered mountains, such as Huang Shan and Mount Emei. The colored halo surrounding the observer's shadow is often considered a sign of personal lighting, similar to other optical phenomena such as the lunar rainbow. A similar phenomenon can be experienced in other atmospheric conditions.
The observations of the Brocken spectre Not only have they been a key factor in meteorology, but they have also inspired myths and legends throughout the ages. For many ancient cultures, the appearance of a giant specter surrounded by colors was interpreted as a divine warning or an omen, reflecting the cultural and spiritual importance that has been given to this phenomenon throughout history.
The fascination for Brocken spectre It persists today. Meteorology and natural phenomenon photography enthusiasts continue to seek opportunities to witness and capture this curious spectacle, as the phenomenon is not only a visual delight but also a reminder of the many mysteries and wonders that nature has to offer.
