Explanation for the hyperbolic array of light rays.

  • #1
ddddd28
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Hello,
Recently, a solar power tower plant was founded next to where I work.
Since it's the tallest object in the area, it's quite hard to miss it. But apart from that, every morning the reflected light is arranged in a hyperbolic- like way, as you can see in the picture.
Does anyone have a mathematical based explanation for this spectacular display?
 

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Answers and Replies

  • #2
.Scott
Science Advisor
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What we see to the left of the tower are the beams failing to focus on the tower - apparently deliberately.
What we see just to the right of the tower is a bit more mysterious. It appears to be a combination of atmosphere and reflections from the tower itself.

It's hard to tell, but it appears that the sun is fairly high in the sky- apparently in back of the left shoulder of the photographer.
 

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