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Sky color near the horizon during a total solar eclipse
Applied Optics
|February 16, 2010
Summary
Sky color during a total solar eclipse is explained by a new theory. The model predicts red hues near the horizon and blue at higher elevations, consistent with observations.
Area of Science:
- Atmospheric optics
- Solar eclipse phenomena
Background:
- Sky color is primarily determined by Rayleigh scattering.
- Total solar eclipses offer unique conditions for observing atmospheric light scattering.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a theoretical model explaining the horizon sky color during a total solar eclipse.
- To account for both red and blue color variations observed at different elevations.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing a Rayleigh scattering atmospheric model.
- Analyzing singly scattered sunlight that has undergone depletion.
- Applying the model to specific eclipse observations and general atmospheric conditions.
Main Results:
- The model accurately predicts the observed red color in the lowest sky degrees during the 1973 total solar eclipse.
- It also explains the enriched blue color at higher elevation angles.
- The theory is adaptable to other phenomena like cloud cover and cityscape light.
Conclusions:
- The presented theory provides a unified explanation for horizon sky colors under various atmospheric light conditions.
- Rayleigh scattering and light depletion are key factors in determining observed sky colors during eclipses and other events.
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