As the sun beamed down on the streets of Newcastle on Thursday, 2 November 2023, a remarkable optical event graced the skies, catching the attention of keen observers.
The captivating occurrence, known as a Sun Halo, or scientifically as a 22° halo, made a brief appearance in the Newcastle skyline, leaving onlookers in awe.
Photographer Angus Burns seized the opportunity to capture this celestial spectacle at approximately 12:15 pm before it gradually dissipated after 1 pm.
A 22° halo, as explained by Wikipedia, is an atmospheric optical phenomenon characterised by a halo with an apparent radius of roughly 22 degrees around the Sun or the Moon. When this enchanting ring encircles the Moon, it is also referred to as a moon ring, storm ring, or winter halo.
Moreover, this celestial marvel forms as sunlight or moonlight is refracted by innumerable hexagonal ice crystals suspended in the Earth’s atmosphere, creating a captivating ring roughly equivalent in size to the length of an outstretched hand at arm’s length.
Adding to the intrigue, Vox Weather elaborated on the origins of this celestial splendour. According to their meteorological experts, thin cirrus clouds, located at altitudes of approximately 6000 meters or higher, are composed of minuscule ice crystals.
When sunlight penetrates these ice crystals, it causes the light to diffract and refract, ultimately producing the luminous halo that graced our skies on this particular day.
Furthermore, both Wikipedia and Vox Weather contributed to the allure of this event by noting the folklore associated with such phenomena. They explained that legend has it that the appearance of a ring around the sun or moon indicates impending rain. While this superstition is not proven, Vox Weather clarified that it does hold some truth. Cirrus clouds, heralded by the halo, often precede a weather system that may usher in rain in a subsequent day or so.
This celestial spectacle, though often elusive, left an indelible impression on those fortunate enough to witness it.
It is worth your time to look up and learn about the awe inspring universe we live in. Thanks to brilliant minds and dedicated teams, you and I can enjoy the endless events constantly taking place around us from the comfort of our couches. Therefore, be sure to visit the following website by clicking here to see what the James Webb telescope has been capturing across the majesty of space.
Don’t forget to see what the amazing Hubble Space Telescope has been capturing by clicking here.
As Newcastle residents witnessed this moment of natural wonder, the question arises: Did you have the opportunity to glimpse the 22° halo? We invite you to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments section below.
