I Optical Effect: curved light source when seen through the bus window

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the optical phenomenon of curved light sources observed through a bus window at night. Initial explanations suggest refraction, but participants argue that the glass is flat and propose that the effect may result from reflections off streaks or smudges on the glass. Some speculate that the curved appearance could be an artifact from the camera itself, possibly due to fingerprints or lens issues. The concentric nature of the streaks is highlighted as a key observation, indicating they may not originate from the glass. Overall, the conversation explores various potential causes for the optical effect experienced during the bus ride.
Marth
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During the night, I was traveling by local bus. And as I viewed through the window, the light from the street lights and the headlights of other vehicles appeared curved, as shown in the images below:
viber_image_2023-10-26_19-50-48-679.jpg
viber_image_2023-10-26_19-50-48-472.jpg

One common answer is: because of refraction
Is there any more explanation for this behavior?
 
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Marth said:
Is there any more explanation for this behavior?

The window is curved...
 
No, it is not. That's a perfectly flat glass surface.
 
Pretty sure those are reflections off streaks on the glass - could be oil, could be residue from a cleaner.

These, but curved:
1698332183726.png
 
Upon further "reflection" I am not convinced this is an effect of the glass.
It's got to be an artifact of your camera.

The streaks are perfectly circular, perfectly concentric, and their origin is in the direction your camera is pointed.
1698332455113.png


Is it an uncropped image? I don't suppose you cropped off the left side of the image did you?
 
In fact, there seem to be two foci of concentricity in discrete areas:

1698335425644.png

They could very well be fingerprint smudges on your lens.
 
Last edited:

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