I Are There Two Suns? Exploring the Phenomenon of Sun Dogs

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the phenomenon of 'sun dogs' and related atmospheric optics, specifically the '22° halo' and possibly the '46° halo' or 'supralateral arc.' These effects occur due to sunlight reflecting off ice crystals in the atmosphere, creating secondary rings around the sun. Participants suggest consulting Wikipedia for detailed explanations and images of these phenomena. The conversation emphasizes that these optical effects are the most likely explanations for the appearance of what may seem like two suns. Understanding these atmospheric conditions can clarify the observed visual effects.
Fastmamon
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Good morning, afternoon or evening, in the morning I encountered the phenomenon of the images where there seem to be two suns and a rainbow joined by two solar rings, the "main" sun has two rings, the secondary one had a very very faint one that the camera did not capture, please could you explain to me why the phenomenon occurs, thank you :).
WhatsApp Image 2025-10-08 at 8.33.40 AM (1).webp
WhatsApp Image 2025-10-08 at 8.33.40 AM.webp
WhatsApp Image 2025-10-08 at 8.33.39 AM (2).webp
WhatsApp Image 2025-10-08 at 8.33.39 AM (1).webp
 
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Looks like 'sun dogs' with the '22° halo'. Maybe the '46° halo' or the 'supralateral arc' as well, seeing how there is a secondary ring. They're all, in general, the effect of sunlight being reflected off of ice crystals in the atmosphere.
Wikipedia has articles on those terms, with pictures and some more detailed explanation given. Have a look there and see if your question is answered to your satisfaction. Also worth checking are the other phenomena in the 'see also' sections of those articles, but I think the ones already mentioned are the most likely culprits.
 
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Bandersnatch said:
Looks like 'sun dogs' with the '22° halo'. Maybe the '46° halo' or the 'supralateral arc' as well, seeing how there is a secondary ring. They're all, in general, the effect of sunlight being reflected off of ice crystals in the atmosphere.
Wikipedia has articles on those terms, with pictures and some more detailed explanation given. Have a look there and see if your question is answered to your satisfaction. Also worth checking are the other phenomena in the 'see also' sections of those articles, but I think the ones already mentioned are the most likely culprits.
Thank you very much, just what I was looking for.
 
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