Brooke Martin
A sun candle, also known as a sub sun or subsun, is a rare optical phenomenon that occurs when sunlight interacts with ice crystals in the atmosphere. Sun candles typically occur within cirrus clouds or ice fog, resulting from the direct reflection of the sun on millions of cloud crystals acting as a giant mirror. This phenomenon usually takes place at high altitudes and appears as a bright spot or halo located just below the sun. Sun candles can be observed from above, and the position of the sun plays a crucial role in their visibility. To witness this rare event, individuals may need to be in specific locations, such as ski resorts with the right atmospheric conditions, or at high altitudes where cirrus clouds or ice-covered surfaces are present. While it may be challenging to predict and observe this natural phenomenon, it offers a majestic display of atmospheric optics for those fortunate enough to witness it.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Other Names | Sub Sun, Subsun |
| Appearance | A glowing spot, a flame-shaped atmospheric phenomenon |
| Cause | Sunlight reflecting off ice crystals in the atmosphere |
| Ice Crystals | Typically found within cirrus clouds or ice fog |
| Halo | A type of subhorizon ice halo |
| Sun Position | Just right, with cloud shadow creating a dark background |
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What You'll Learn
Sun candles are optical phenomena
The "sun candle" is a rare optical phenomenon, also known as a "
The sun candle is part of a family of halos and appears as a glowing spot within clouds or mist when viewed from above. It forms when a region of hexagonal ice crystals create a virtual image of the sun below the horizon. As the ice crystals fall, they develop into plate crystals with hexagonal surfaces parallel to the Earth's surface. When disturbed by turbulence, these plates wobble, causing the vertical elongation of the reflection, known as the subsun.
To witness this phenomenon, certain conditions must be met. The sunlight must reflect off the ice crystals at a precise angle to form the vertical beam of light. It is commonly observed during sunrise or sunset, especially when the sun is low on the horizon. The experience can be life-changing, as described by a skier in Austria who captured a viral video of this breathtaking optical illusion.
While the sun candle may be challenging to observe due to its rarity, it serves as a captivating reminder of the intricate interactions between natural forces and our environment. It invites us to appreciate the wonders of nature and the unique ways in which light and atmospheric conditions can combine to create awe-inspiring moments.
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They occur when sunlight reflects off ice crystals
The phenomenon of a sun candle, also known as a "sub sun", occurs when sunlight reflects off ice crystals. It is a rare and gorgeous natural occurrence. Sun candles are formed when sunlight interacts with ice crystals in the atmosphere, typically within cirrus clouds or ice fog. The ice crystals act as prisms, reflecting and refracting light to create various optical effects.
To witness this phenomenon, one typically needs to be in a snowy environment or high-altitude location. Sun candles usually appear just below the sun and are visible when the sun is near the horizon. The position of the sun is crucial, and a dark background, such as a cloud shadow, can make the sun candle stand out more prominently.
Sun pillars are another optical phenomenon caused by the reflection of sunlight off ice crystals. They appear as vertical columns of light extending from the top or bottom of the sun. Sun pillars are formed when sunlight reflects off the outside of nearly-horizontal faces of ice crystals, such as the prism faces of large oriented column ice crystals or the basal faces of fluttering plates. The best time to observe sun pillars is at sunrise or sunset when the sun is hidden just below the horizon but still illuminates the ice crystals.
Another phenomenon created by ice crystals in the atmosphere is sundogs, also known as mock suns or parhelia. Sundogs are glowing spots that appear around the sun, created by sunlight refracting off plate-shaped ice crystals in cirrus clouds. Sundogs are commonly observed throughout the year and worldwide, especially when the sun is close to the horizon. The part of a sundog closest to the sun is typically red, while areas further away may appear blue or green.
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Sun candles are also known as subsuns
The "sun candle" is a rare optical phenomenon that occurs when sunlight interacts with small, flat ice crystals in the atmosphere, typically within cirrus clouds or ice fog. This phenomenon is also known as a "subsun". Sun candles or subsuns are vertical beams of light that resemble candle flames. They are caused by the reflection of sunlight off millions of cloud crystals acting as a giant mirror. The ice crystals that cause this phenomenon are usually found in high-altitude clouds or on ice-covered surfaces. Sun candles are best observed when the sun is near the horizon, and the sun's position has to be just right.
The term "sun candle" comes from the resemblance of the phenomenon to a candle flame. The effect is a type of subhorizon ice halo, belonging to the family of halos. The ice crystals that create the sun candle act as a large mirror, reflecting the sun's light and creating a virtual image of the sun below the horizon. The phenomenon is considered an optical illusion that can be witnessed from great altitudes, such as mountain tops or even from planes.
In February 2025, a viral video captured by skier Lenka Lanč in Austria showcased this rare phenomenon. The video sparked widespread amazement and humour online, with many describing the sight as breathtaking, astounding, and otherworldly. Some commenters even joked about the sun candle being a portal to another dimension or a parallel universe. The observation of this phenomenon is mostly experienced during sunrise and sunset, especially when the sun is low on the horizon.
The conditions for the formation of a sun candle or subsun are quite specific. Sunlight must reflect off the ice crystals at a highly specific angle to create the vertical beam of light. The sun candle phenomenon offers a glimpse into the intricate and fascinating ways in which natural forces interact with our environment. It is a rare and majestic display of atmospheric optics that leaves observers in awe of the beauty and mystery of nature.
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They are visible when the sun is near the horizon
The "sun candle" or "sub sun" is a rare optical phenomenon that occurs in snowy environments. It happens when sunlight interacts with and reflects off the surface of ice crystals, typically within cirrus clouds or ice fog. This results in a direct reflection of the sun on millions of cloud crystals acting as a giant mirror. The phenomenon appears as a bright spot or halo located just below the sun, and it is usually visible when the sun is near the horizon. The position of the sun has to be just right, and a cloud shadow can enhance the phenomenon by creating a dark background.
Sun candles are typically found in high-altitude clouds or on ice-covered surfaces. They are considered a gorgeous natural occurrence, and some have likened them to portals to another world or dimension. The term "sun candle" refers to the shape of the phenomenon, which resembles a flickering flame.
To observe a sun candle, one needs to be in the right place at the right time. They are more likely to occur in high-altitude or icy locations, as mentioned earlier. Additionally, the position of the sun is crucial. The sun should be near the horizon, and the presence of a cloud shadow can further enhance the visibility of the sun candle.
Witnessing a sun candle requires a combination of the right atmospheric conditions and a favourable position of the sun. The phenomenon is fleeting and dependent on the interaction of sunlight with ice crystals in cirrus clouds or ice fog. The ice crystals act as a collective mirror, reflecting the sunlight in a specific way that creates the distinctive appearance of a sun candle.
Sun candles are a beautiful and intriguing natural phenomenon that can leave observers feeling amazed and fortunate. Their rarity adds to their allure, and those who have the opportunity to witness this majestic display of nature often describe it as a memorable and supernatural experience.
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Sun candles are often seen in high-altitude clouds
Sun candles, also known as "sub suns", are rare optical phenomena that occur when sunlight is reflected off the surface of ice crystals. Sun candles are typically found in high-altitude clouds or ice-covered surfaces. They appear as a bright spot or halo located just below the sun and are usually visible when the sun is near the horizon.
High-level clouds, such as cirrus, cirrocumulus, and cirrostratus, are typically found at altitudes ranging from 4,000 to 20,000 meters (13,000 to 66,000 feet) above sea level. The altitude of these clouds increases as latitude decreases, with higher elevations found in tropical regions and lower elevations in polar regions. Cirrus clouds, in particular, are composed of ice crystals, which cause them to appear white. These ice crystals can also create a transparent effect, allowing the sun to be seen through them.
When sunlight interacts with the ice crystals in high-altitude clouds, it can create the sun candle phenomenon. The position of the sun is crucial, and the phenomenon is more likely to occur when the sun is near the horizon. The sun candle appears as a bright spot or halo below the sun, creating the illusion of a flaming candle. This optical phenomenon is a result of the direct reflection of sunlight on the ice crystals, acting as a giant mirror.
To observe sun candles, it is important to find a location with high-altitude clouds or ice-covered surfaces. These conditions are more commonly found in mountainous regions or during winter when ice-covered surfaces are more prevalent. It is also important to note that sun candles are rare occurrences, and patience and luck are necessary to witness this stunning natural phenomenon.
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Frequently asked questions
A sun candle, also known as a "sub sun" or "subsun", is an optical phenomenon that occurs when sunlight is reflected off the surface of ice crystals.
A sun candle appears as a bright spot or halo located just below the sun. It has been described as resembling a portal to another world.
Sun candles typically occur within cirrus clouds or ice fog, usually when the sun is near the horizon.
Sun candles are usually found in high-altitude clouds or ice-covered surfaces. They have been observed in places like SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser in Brixental, Austria.
