Help explain an optical effect

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    Explain Optical
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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the optical distortion observed in a photograph of astronaut Tracy Caldwell-Dyson taken in the cupola of the International Space Station (ISS). Participants identify the distortion at the edges of the window and where the astronaut's forearm obscures the view as likely caused by diffraction effects, exacerbated by increased contrast at light-dark boundaries. The phenomenon resembles capillary action but is attributed to the interaction of light with the window's curvature and surrounding objects. The conversation emphasizes the need for a deeper understanding of optical effects in photography.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of optical phenomena such as diffraction
  • Familiarity with photography concepts, particularly light contrast
  • Knowledge of the physics of light and its interaction with surfaces
  • Awareness of the International Space Station's environment and its impact on visual perception
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of diffraction and how it affects image quality
  • Explore the effects of contrast in photography and its visual implications
  • Study the physics of light and its interaction with different materials
  • Investigate optical effects observed in space environments, particularly in photographs taken from the ISS
USEFUL FOR

Photographers, optical physicists, space enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the visual effects of light in photography, especially in unique environments like the ISS.

Bandersnatch
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Hi, new to the forums, nice to meet you folks, etc.

Today the English wikipedia featured a picture of Tracy Caldwell-Dyson in the cupola of ISS(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Tracy_Caldwell_Dyson_in_Cupola_ISS.jpg).
In that picture the arc of Earth/space boundary is visibly distorted at the window edges and where the astronaut's forearm obscures the view.
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Looks a bit like capillary action, although it's probably symmetrical and only appears to distort towards one side due to brightness difference around those points.

Anyway, last time I touched optics was in high school, and while I'd love to grok the how&why of the effect, I don't even know where to look for it. Is this due to diffraction? Something else?

It bothers me to no end, and I'd appreciate any help here, be it an in-depth explanation, or just pointing in the right direction.

Cheers chaps.
 
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It's in the camera - you are getting increased contrast at the light-dark boundary. Notice how the cloud detail is also washed out near dark foreground objects?
 
I don't know the reason. But if you just put your finger in front of one of your eye. You will see the similar effect.
Most likely it is diffraction effect. yes...
 

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