Etymology
The word "parhelion" comes from the Greek words "para," meaning "beside" or "near," and "helios," meaning "sun."
Meaning
A parhelion is an optical phenomenon that creates the illusion of multiple suns appearing beside the actual sun. These illusory suns are also known as "mock suns" or "sun dogs."
Origin
Parhelia are caused by the refraction and reflection of sunlight through ice crystals suspended in the atmosphere. These ice crystals are typically in the form of cirrus clouds. The crystals act like tiny prisms, bending the sunlight and creating the illusion of additional suns.
Parhelia typically appear at the same altitude as the sun and about 22 degrees to either side. They can be seen in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, but they are more common in the winter when the sun is lower in the sky.
Parhelia have been observed and described for centuries. The first recorded observation of a parhelion was by Aristotle in the 4th century BC. Parhelia have also been depicted in art and literature throughout history.
Cultural Significance
In some cultures, parhelia are seen as a sign of good luck or favor from the gods. In other cultures, they are seen as a sign of impending doom or bad luck. However, there is no scientific evidence to support any of these beliefs.
Parhelia are a beautiful and fascinating optical phenomenon that provide a glimpse into the amazing ways that light interacts with the atmosphere.
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