El Meteorological phenomenon Today's protagonist seems to have emerged from a science fiction novel, but in reality there is nothing fictional about it ... it is something very real and takes place on Earth much more regularly than we think. It is known as the "phenomenon of the three Suns" and offers an amazing triplicate view of our star.
Naturally, it is not that the Sun has multiplied, but that it is due to a optical effect caused by the reflection of the sun's rays on the tiny ice crystals inside the clouds. This phenomenon is known scientifically as parhelion and occurs when sunlight refracts through ice crystals in cirrus clouds. These types of clouds are composed of hexagonal ice crystals that, when they absorb sunlight, create the optical illusion that more than one sun is visible in the sky.
For a parhelion to form, we need to have high-type clouds, specifically cirrus clouds, which are thin and have a veil-like appearance. Sunlight hits these crystals at an angle of 22 degrees, generating the optical illusion of two circular yellow spots to the right and left of our Sun.
This phenomenon is not uncommon, although we are not always exposed to it, as we often do not stare directly at the Sun. It occurs most frequently at dawn or dusk, when the Sun is lower on the horizon and atmospheric conditions are favorable for the appearance of these optical effects. In general, parhelia are most visible in high latitudes, where temperatures are lower and the chance of finding ice crystals in the clouds is greater.
The images of this natural phenomenon are truly impressive and can cause awe. Some historical accounts mention sightings of three suns in the sky, which has led to confusion and sometimes superstitions about apocalyptic or supernatural events. One notable case occurred in 2012 in Shanghai, where three apparent suns were observed in the sky, generating a great stir among the population.
Below these lines, you can see a couple more of images of this curious phenomenon:
The history of the parhelion can be linked to mystical and religious phenomena, while science has very clear explanations for its formation. Parhelions, also known as sundogs o mock suns In English, they have been studied for centuries, and the first documented parhelion dates back to the April 20th 1535At that time, he was observed and portrayed in a painting called Vädersolstavlan in Stockholm, Sweden. This portrait is considered one of the first documented instances of a parhelion.
To observe a parhelion, it will be essential that there is weather conditions suitable. It is most common on cold, sunny days, often in winter and in regions with colder climates. During this phenomenon, ice crystals in the clouds can refract light so that a halo of light around the sun. Occasionally, more than two luminous destinations can be seen in the sky, creating the illusion of more than one visible sun. Furthermore, this phenomenon is similar to that which occurs in other atmospheric conditions that are sometimes associated with the dense fog.
Science also offers us tricks for finding these false suns. For example, covering the real sun with your thumb and pinky can help show the position of false suns. This is because these parhelia usually appear 22 degrees to the left or right of the main sun.
This phenomenon is so spectacular that it has been demonstrated on several occasions that it is possible to capture truly astonishing photographs and videos. Modern technology allows meteorologists and meteorology enthusiasts to document and share these images in real time. Over the years, human curiosity has led to the research and study of these phenomena, revealing not only their beauty but also their scientific complexity.
The next time you look up at the sky and think you see multiple suns, remember that you are witnessing an amazing natural phenomenon that has fascinated humanity for centuries. three suns phenomenon, the parhelion, exemplifies the beauty of our natural world and the intriguing science behind these manifestations of light.
