Golden-Hued Solar Corona Stuns Observers During Spain Eclipse
During last week's total solar eclipse, viewers in Spain reported an unusually golden corona, caused by low-angle sunlight and smoke from forest fires.
Observers of the recent total solar eclipse in Spain noted a strikingly golden appearance of the solar corona, a departure from the typical white glow. Because the eclipse occurred as the Sun was low on the horizon, its rays traveled through a substantial column of air that scattered blue light. Smoke from regional forest fires acted as an extra filter, deepening the golden coloration.
An HDR-processed composite image from Benavente illustrates this phenomenon. Despite the overall gold tint, a hydrogen-emitting prominence on the Sun’s left limb remained bright pink. The event highlights how atmospheric conditions can alter the visual characteristics of eclipses.
Why it matters
The eclipse shows how atmospheric particles can dramatically change celestial observations, informing both scientists and the public.
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