The universe is a vast, incredible thing. There is so much we have yet to understand about why things are the way they are. Then there are those things that, even when explained, still seem completely incredible. Here's our roundup of some pictures of nature and the most bizarre and miraculous natural occurrences. As they say, in some cases the truth is stranger than fiction—and in this case, nature is truly bizarre.
Moonbow
For many, this is not a true moonbow, but a spray moonbow at the Lower Yosemite FallsRainbows are a well-observed occurrence. What about moonbows? A moonbow is sometimes called a lunar rainbow or white rainbow. It is a rainbow that comes from light reflecting from the surface of the moon instead of the sun. Moonbows are not as bright and distinguishable as their famous cousins, but because of their exclusivity, they hold a special kind of beauty.
Moonbows are always located in the opposite part of the sky from the moon and can best be viewed when the moon is near to full. For true moonbows, other than those produced by waterfalls or sprays, the moon must be low in the sky and the sky has to be dark and rainy.
Aurora Borealis and Aurora Australis
Northern Lights over Bear Lake, Eielson Air Force Base, AlaskaOtherwise known as the Northern Lights or Southern Lights, this spellbinding natural phenomenon is one of the most spectacular. These lights are a result of the Earth’s photons colliding with solar winds and they are only visible in certain parts of the Northern or Southern Hemisphere.
Danxia landform
Danxia landform in Gansu, ChinaA unique geological phenomenon known as Danxia landform can only be observed in several places in China. This example is from Zhangye, a Province of Gansu. The color is the result of an accumulation of millions of years of red sandstone and other compound rocks.
Antarctic Waves
Antartic base in Dumont d'UrvilleUnlike common misconception this natural phenomenon is not produced by water hitting cold air and freezing, but rather ice melting. Melting water in this situation is created by a glacier or ice cap and each time snow accumulates, more layers are added to the “wave.”
Mammatus Clouds
Mammatus Clouds over San Francisco, CaliforniaMammatus clouds most often form on the underside of cumulonimbus clouds. Mammatus clouds usually form beneath weakening thunderstorms, thus indicating the passing of severe weather.
Their name means "mammary cloud" or "breast cloud," for its appearance.
Earthquake Lights
Earthquake Lights over ChileSometimes before, sometimes after a large earthquake, blue, white, or colored light flashes appear in the sky. They only last a few seconds, and occur infrequently. Their origins are yet unknown, with theories ranging from phosphine gas emissions to electrokinetics.
Bioluminescence
Mycena chlorophanosThis phenomenon in nature is called bioluminescence and is a trait possesed only by a small group of creatures. This is a bioluminescent form of fungi.
Other bioluminescent organisms include the firefly, the fungus gnat, deep sea flashlight fish, female anglerfish, Cookiecutter sharks, and squid.
Climbing Goats of Morroco
Climbing Goats of MorrocoThis is an example of extreme animal adaptation. These Moroccan goats climb trees because they’re hungry. With minimal food for them on the ground, they climb the trees looking for fruit, nuts, and edible leaves.
The Naga Fireballs
The Naga Fireballs over Thailand’s Mekong RiverThailand’s Mekong River is home to a phenomenon of exploding fireballs. Scientists believe that the fireballs are pockets of methane bubbling up from the river, but local residents think this to be a mystical occurrence coming from the fiery breath of Naga, a serpent that haunts the river.
Life
Week 17 UltrasoundThis is most unbelievable thing of them all. Our bodies are such delicate, mysterious things. We are simply a bunch of atoms bouncing around from place to place. With all of our knowledge and all of our experiences, we still don't know why we're here.
© Copyright RosebudMag.com, 2012
No comments:
Post a Comment