Introduction

Halos of light, also known as light rings, are fascinating spectacles that occur around sources of light at night. They are often seen around streetlights, headlights, and other bright lights in the dark. These halos appear as beautiful, luminous rings that seem to emanate from the light source, adding a magical quality to the night sky. This article aims to explore the science behind this phenomenon and the reasons why halos of light occur.

The Science behind Halos of Light

Halos of light occur due to the scattering of light by tiny water droplets or ice crystals present in the atmosphere. When light rays from a source such as a streetlight pass through the atmosphere, they get scattered by the water droplets or ice crystals. This scattering causes the light to spread out and form a ring shape around the light source, creating a halo effect.

The size and intensity of the halo depend on a few factors, including the size of the water droplets or ice crystals, the distance between the light source and the observer, and the angle of the observer’s line of sight. In general, a larger light source produces a larger halo, and the halo becomes more visible as the observer moves farther away from the light source.

Types of Halos of Light

There are several types of halos of light that can be observed at night. The most common types are the 22-degree halo, the 46-degree halo, and the circumzenithal arc.

The 22-Degree Halo

The 22-degree halo is the most common type of halo observed around light sources. It is called the “22-degree” halo because it forms at an angle of approximately 22 degrees from the light source. This halo appears as a bright ring around the light source and is caused by the scattering of light by hexagonal ice crystals in the atmosphere.

The 46-Degree Halo

The 46-degree halo is a rarer type of halo that occurs at an angle of approximately 46 degrees from the light source. It is also caused by the scattering of light by hexagonal ice crystals, but it appears larger and fainter than the 22-degree halo.

The Circumzenithal Arc

The circumzenithal arc is a colorful halo that appears as an arc of bright colors near the zenith, or the highest point in the sky. It is also caused by the scattering of light by ice crystals, but unlike the 22-degree and 46-degree halos, it appears as a rainbow-like arc rather than a ring. The circumzenithal arc is a rare phenomenon and is often considered a treat for sky-watchers and photographers.

The Aesthetic Appeal of Halos of Light

Halos of light are not only fascinating from a scientific perspective but also add an aesthetic appeal to the night sky. They provide a mystical and enchanting atmosphere that can be observed easily, sometimes even in urban environments. They are also popular subjects for photography, where their beauty can be captured and shared with others.