Moon Rings: Blue, Yellow & Red - Explanation?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the observation of colored rings surrounding the moon, specifically noting the colors blue, yellow, and red. Participants seek to understand the phenomenon, which relates to atmospheric optics and light refraction.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant describes observing a colored ring around the moon, expressing curiosity about the cause of this phenomenon.
  • Another participant suggests that the effect is similar to that of a rainbow, attributing it to water droplets or ice crystals in the atmosphere refracting the moonlight, with the index of refraction varying by wavelength.
  • A third participant acknowledges the connection to rainbows but expresses uncertainty about the details.
  • Additional posts provide links to external resources for further information and visual reference.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the connection between the observed phenomenon and the principles of light refraction, though some uncertainty remains regarding the specifics of the atmospheric conditions involved.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the discussion regarding the assumptions about atmospheric conditions and the specific mechanisms at play in the formation of the colored rings.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in atmospheric optics, light phenomena, or those curious about natural visual effects may find this discussion relevant.

TheIconoclast
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I was staring at the moon last night and noticed that as the clouds passed next to the moon a ring of color would surround the moon. The inner ring (closest to the moon) was blue. The middle ring looked yellow. And the outer ring looked red. It looked so cool! But i have no idea why this was happening. Could anyone explain this phenomena?

And please excuse my ignorance. Thank you!
 
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It's the same basic phenomenom that causes a rainbow. Water droplets (or possibly ice crystals) in the atmosphere refract the light from the moon, and since the index of refraction is a function of wavelength, different frequencies get refracted by a different amounts, so the white light from the moon gets split into colors.
 
I was thinking it was linked to the same concept behind a rainbow but wasn't entirely sure. Thanks a lot phyzguy
 

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