Fata Morgana of Swiss Alps

Provided by: Vincent Jacques
Summary author: Vincent Jacques

The photo above shows the deformation of the Swiss Alps by a succession of superior mirages. It was taken 30 minutes after sunrise on October 8, 2006, from approximately 200 km (120 miles) away at Cime du Sabion (altitude of about 2,600 m or 8,530 ft). This type of mirage is referred to as the Fata Morgana and is often seen during temperature inversions (when warmer air lies above a cooler air mass), as occurred on this early autumn morning.

Photo details: Canon EOS 350D, 300 mm focal lens, on a tripod. Location: Near Tende, in the Alpes Maritimes.

Related Links:

• Alistair Fraser - Mirage Phenomena
• Atmospheric Optics Glossary
• Atmospheric Optics
• Color and Light in Nature

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