Ambling Sampling: Sunset Chasing, Green Flash Finding

I grew up on a West Coast, with sunsets over the Pacific Ocean at dinner each night. I knew that wildfires would create intense colors, that high clouds would reflect pink, and that my dad always claimed there was something called the Green Flash.

Sunset Chasing was a term I coined while studying abroad in Barbados. Even with the countless evenings spent sipping rum and enjoying the sunset with friends, the Green Flash still alluded me.

My first Green Flash occurred at a TG over the Summer of 2008, when I was here at Scripps on an internship. This was back when all TGs were at T29, so the elevation and unbroken horizon helped introduce me to what a Green Flash involves. It is NOT a flash and it does NOT make noise.

Torrey Pines State Reserve

The sun is white (think midday) and therefore contains all colors of light. Sunsets are orange because the sunlight travels through so much atmosphere when it is near the horizon. As the sun dips below the horizon, green is able to bend around the curvature of the earth SLIGHTLY more than orange. Therefore, a small patch of green, of EQUAL intensity to the orange is the last visible shade of light. You have to be careful, because you can burn your retina while watching the orange disappear.

Anyways, enjoy these pictures of Sunset Chasing with even a few Green Flashes for good measure.

Bird Rock

Somethings Interesting:

--YOU NEED a clear, unbroken horizon, ideally over water. As the sun begins to set, look away in order to NOT burn your retina. You should watch in a reflection of something for timing (I use my phone screen). As the sun begins to disappear, watch intently for the green light. Binoculars help, but aren't necessary.

--For some reason, I have gained a reputation as faking Green Flashes. I relate this to the fact that Green Flashing is a skill that not all have (and of which most are jealous).

--There are rumors of a Blue Flash that occurs because blue light is able to bend EVEN FURTHER than green (and the possibility of a Purple Flash). I have yet to definitively see a blue flash.

--For a more thorough explanation, go here: http://mintaka.sdsu.edu/GF/