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A Banded Star

25 October 2007

A Banded Star
The image shows the formation of the sunset mirage phenomenon. Due to optical atmospheric effects, an image of the Sun rises from the sea, merging with the Sun. The presence of thin clouds rendered the Sun a banded appearance.
Photo by Aymen Ibrahem, Senior Astronomy Specialist

On 20 October 2007, the western horizon was foggy, but BA Senior Astronomy Specialist Aymen Ibrahem observed a fascinating sunset despite the low visibility.

"Thin clouds rendered the setting red Sun a banded appearance, much similar to artists' renditions of giant extrasolar planets," said Ibrahem with a smile. Ibrahem also made an intriguing observation of the spectacular sunset mirage phenomenon.

Ibrahem recorded the entire stages of the sunset mirage. Fortunately, two distant ships were passing in the foreground, adding more beauty to the awesome view. The Sun disc was distorted due to optical atmospheric effects.

"The western horizon was very foggy, but I was not frustrated," said Ibrahem. "I continued observing, and when the Sun was about 1 degree from the horizon, it was smeared. Soon, another Sun rose from the sea. The twin red stars merged, forming a bizarre cosmic object that slowly sank in the sea."

Ibrahem named his series of images "A Banded Star". Some of his images are presented in the picture gallery below. "This was one of the wealthiest experiences in my career," added Ibrahem.

Picture Gallery

Fig (1)
A Smeared Banded Star
Due to optical effects, the Sun disc was reddened and distorted prior to sunset.
Photo by Aymen Ibrahem, Senior Astronomy Specialist

Fig (2)

Sunset Mirage and a Distant Ship

Photo by Aymen Ibrahem, Senior Astronomy Specialist

Fig (3)

Omega Sun

The Sun resembles the Greek letter omega, due to Sunset mirage. A beautiful boat and a distant ship are also visible.

Photo by Aymen Ibrahem, Senior Astronomy Specialist

Fig (4)
Omega Sun and Two Ships
Photo by Aymen Ibrahem, Senior Astronomy Specialist

Fig (5)

Sun Disappears Beyond Ship

Photo by Aymen Ibrahem, Senior Astronomy Specialist

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