Cloud rays (or Crepuscular rays) are one of the most sought-after sky phenomenon. They are
the shadows or light rays produced by the sun trying to shine around or through the clouds.
There are many different variations of rays. Some appear as the sun sinks low beneath the
clouds on the horizon, projecting alternating rays of sunlight and shadows from cumulus cloud
edges, streaming toward you and on over your head.
Another type of ray occurs when cumulus clouds are gliding overhead, illuminated from above,
allowing intermitten shafts of sunlight or light beams through. These are what people usually
associate with the glory of heaven, as rays streaming down from the clouds.
A pair of glasses with polarized lenses is required, not only to protect the eyes, but most
of these sky phenomenon can't be detected without them!
Cloud shadows are more rare than cloud rays. I found a varity of cloud effects on
the afternoon of June 14th, 2005.
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While I am at work, I keep my eye on the sky. I have to be careful I don't trip
over anything while I'm looking up!
There was a storm moving in, and these clouds came in just ahead of the front. They
produced a few drops of rain, but brought more shadows for my website!
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One lone ray of hope arrives at days end...
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From the porch of my new home, I get to see God's great cloud creations unfold while
I watch. I have a wide open view of the evening sky, which is my favorite time of day.
Across the road from my lot, there is a large old oak tree. It stands willing to add
proportion to my evening photos. Take a look...
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A nice uniform spreading of the cloud rays...
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Strange. I never realized the fact that the moon is capable of producing the same type
of cloud rays as the sun, although not as intense. The nearer to a full moon, the more
the rays stand out. These pictures have a Halloween feel...
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Here is an awesome ray, the only one streaming from the heavens to the earth!
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Here is a small collection of various cloud rays and sun beams...