The discussion revolves around the observation of a perfectly circular moon appearing through clouds, with participants exploring the phenomenon's nature, potential explanations, and atmospheric conditions involved. The scope includes observational astronomy, atmospheric science, and personal experiences related to the sighting.
Participants express a range of views on the nature of the phenomenon, with some agreeing on the role of ice crystals while others remain uncertain about their presence in warmer climates like Florida. The discussion includes multiple competing explanations and remains unresolved regarding the exact cause of the observed circular moon.
Participants mention varying atmospheric conditions and personal observations, which may influence their interpretations. The discussion reflects a mix of anecdotal evidence and scientific reasoning without reaching a consensus on the phenomenon's explanation.
Individuals interested in atmospheric phenomena, observational astronomy, and those curious about the science behind halos and light refraction may find this discussion relevant.
Check out 12.2 on this link:relativelyslow said:its actually not just an opening in the clouds; its like a ring! outside the ring i see stars and stuff so its not continuous cloud cover with an opening. i assume they are clouds because i don't know what else the light would reflect off of. does anyone know what's going on? this is the coolest thing
Two things: the spacing of the rings is determined by the shape of the ice crystals and air gets a degree or two colder for every 1,000 feet of altitude.relativelyslow said:thats cool. it seems kind of arbitrary that the radius of the circle around the moon is what it is. what do you mean two possible rings at 22 and 44 degrees? its hard to imagine ice crystals in florida but i suppose it is cold at that altitude.
The spacings are actually 22 degrees (light entering a side facet of an ice crystal and exiting through another) and 46 degrees (light entering a side facet and leving through an end facet, for instance). Those of us who live in the higher latitudes probably get to see more halos and more types of them than you Southerners. Here is a very comprehensive website on halos:relativelyslow said:thats cool. it seems kind of arbitrary that the radius of the circle around the moon is what it is. what do you mean two possible rings at 22 and 44 degrees? its hard to imagine ice crystals in florida but i suppose it is cold at that altitude.