Seasons and sky
Green Flash
Direct answer
Green Flash: A Green Flash is a brief green appearance at the upper edge of the Sun near sunrise or sunset, produced by atmospheric dispersion and often magnified by mirage conditions.
A Green Flash is a fleeting green solar-edge effect near a clear horizon.
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At a glance
- Found in
- Seasons & Earth Almanac
- Related
- Horizon Refraction, Crepuscular Rays, Astronomical Season, Equinox
A Green Flash is a fleeting green solar-edge effect near a clear horizon.
A Sun-Earth orientation for seasonal, atmospheric, tidal, and terrestrial terms.
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The story behind Green Flash
Mariners reported the phenomenon for centuries, and photography later documented several distinct mirage-related forms.
Why Green Flash matters
Green Flash makes wavelength-dependent refraction visible and rewards careful observation of horizon structure.
Green Flash in practice: an example
Over a clear ocean horizon, the final sliver of the setting Sun may briefly appear emerald before disappearing.
Where readings of Green Flash go wrong
It is a mistake to stare at the Sun or use binoculars, telescopes, or an optical viewfinder without certified solar protection.
Sources and editorial method
Research references used for this entry include:
- National Weather Service: Atmospheric Optics - NWS science reference for halos, pillars, sundogs, green flashes, rays, and related optical displays.
- NOAA Global Monitoring Laboratory: Solar Calculator Glossary - NOAA definitions for solar geometry, atmospheric refraction, and civil, nautical, and astronomical twilight.
- Source
- The Great Almanac Dictionary
- Category
- Seasons & Earth Almanac
- Last updated
- 2026-09-26
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More in Seasons & Earth Almanac
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Common questions
What is a Green Flash?
A Green Flash is a brief green appearance at the upper edge of the Sun near sunrise or sunset, produced by atmospheric dispersion and often magnified by mirage conditions.
What do people get wrong about a Green Flash?
It is a mistake to stare at the Sun or use binoculars, telescopes, or an optical viewfinder without certified solar protection.
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