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Atmospheric glories: simulations and observations.
1Chemin de l'Avanchet 20, CH-1216 Cointrin, Switzerland. philip@philiplaven.com
Applied Optics
|October 6, 2005
Summary
Mie theory simulations reveal atmospheric glories are primarily caused by spherical water droplets (4-25 micrometers). Further analysis explores droplet size effects and polarization, requiring more observational data.
Area of Science:
- Atmospheric optics
- Light scattering phenomena
Background:
- Atmospheric glories are optical phenomena observed in the direction opposite to the sun.
- Understanding the microphysical properties of atmospheric particles is crucial for interpreting optical phenomena.
Purpose of the Study:
- To simulate atmospheric glories using Mie theory.
- To investigate the influence of droplet size and size distribution on glory appearance.
- To compare simulations with real-world observations, including polarized light.
Main Methods:
- Utilized Mie theory for full-color simulations of glories.
- Varied droplet radii (4-25 micrometers) and droplet size distribution widths in simulations.
- Simulated glories viewed through a linear polarizer.
Main Results:
- Simulations suggest spherical water droplets between 4 and 25 micrometers are the primary cause of most glories.
- Droplet size and distribution width significantly affect glory appearance.
- Simulations with linear polarization align with existing imagery but suggest new observable features.
Conclusions:
- Mie theory provides a robust framework for simulating atmospheric glories.
- Water droplet characteristics are key determinants of glory appearance.
- Further observations are needed to validate polarization-dependent features of simulated glories.