Fragmented Sun Observed from Madonie Park, Sicily
August 16, 2023
Photographer: Teresa Molinaro
Summary Author: Teresa Molinaro
Shown above is the setting Sun as observed near Madonie Park, Sicily, from approximately 3,120 ft (950 m) above sea level. The solar disk seems to have taken on the angular contours of the silhouetted mountains – it’s like a piece of a puzzle ready to be dropped into the fragmented range. Due to atmospheric refraction as the Sun approaches the horizon at sunset, sunlight directed towards us from the bottom portion of the Sun passes through a slightly denser atmosphere than do rays coming from the Sun’s upper portion. Thus, the solar disk appears distorted.
Note also visible are sunspots and a very faint green rim. Photo taken on April 25, 2023.
Photo details: Nikon D7500 camera; f/13; 1/500 second exposure; ISO 200; 70-300 mm; NIKKOR lens.
Parco delle Madonie, Sicily, Italy Coordinates: 37.8774, 14.0275
Related Links:
Sunset, Atmospheric Refraction and Mirages