Parhelion: The optical illusion that makes you see two suns in the sky

Every day, in a matter of minutes or seconds, unimaginable and astonishing things happen. And when they are personally witnessed, there are no words to describe the emotion. This time we were able to observe an atmospheric event, known as Parhelion.

On this occasion surprised us in the middle of the highway, As we left Barquisimeto (Venezuela), the sky was very clear and bright. So much so that it felt like there was a lot of light while driving, as we looked up at the sky, we could perceive a radiant Sun and a dazzling spot on the left side. This also called “false sun”.

What followed, in front of such an event. It was to stop the vehicle, enjoy the atmospheric phenomena and take the opportunity to take some pictures.

What is a Parhelium?

Now then, a Parhelion is an optical effect amazing that occurs when light of our star king, the Sun, is refracted by a large amount of ice particles hexagonal in horizontal position of clouds called cirrus clouds.

In other words, these ice crystals work like prisms, deflecting the light rays, thus forming a glow at about 22° from the Sun. Normally, two appear, one on the left side and the other on the right. Although in some cases, there are only cirrus clouds in one of the two places. Therefore, only one Parhelion is formed.

It is worth noting that these astronomical phenomena occur frequently. Being easier to see them at the beginning of the morning or at the end of the day. Likewise, these events do not always have the same appearance, and its duration time is about 15 minutes..

When they appear, can be seen as a luminous spot similar to the sun.. At other times they are observed more elongated. But, undoubtedly, they are atmospheric events worth taking the time to enjoy.

On the other hand, we should mention that the word Parhelio, comes from the Greek par-helios, where par is equal to “next to”, and helios to “Sun”.” and means similar to the Sun.

Have you had the opportunity to enjoy this type of astronomical event? When and where did you have the privilege of observing a similar one?

Image: Geekine