The Moon 22° Halo and Paraselenic Circle are caused by the refraction and scattering of light in the Earth's atmosphere. The ice crystals in the upper atmosphere act as prisms, bending the light and creating the halo and circle around the Moon.
These atmospheric optics phenomena can be seen when the Moon is at a certain angle in the sky and there are ice crystals present in the upper atmosphere. This typically occurs in colder climates and during certain times of the year.
No, the Moon 22° Halo and Paraselenic Circle are two separate phenomena. The halo is a ring of light that appears around the Moon at a distance of approximately 22 degrees. The paraselenic circle is a larger circle of light that appears around the Moon and is caused by the same ice crystals.
Yes, these phenomena can be seen from any location where the Moon is visible and there are ice crystals in the upper atmosphere. However, they may be more commonly observed in colder climates where ice crystals are more prevalent.
In some cultures, the appearance of a halo around the Moon is seen as a sign of impending change or important events. In Greek mythology, the paraselenic circle was believed to be a representation of Artemis, the goddess of the Moon. However, there is no scientific evidence to support these beliefs.