Red At Night, Shepherd's Delight

Nothing beats a sunset. Isn't it incredible that they're never the same - each one delivers unique cloud formations and one-of-a-kind colour combinations.

Tonight's sunset was a doozy - the heavens were ablaze with vivid colours that seemed to set the sky alight.

Perhaps, like me, you're wondering why one evening there's a breathtaking sunset and the next evening there's nothing - despite both evenings appearing to be much of a muchness, the same temperature, similar clouds etc.

This always intrigues me - I never know for sure when I might strike an ideal evening to capture a sunset shot. So, I decided to see what my buddy 'Google' had to say about it. After reading several explanations it became a little clearer. I'll try and explain how I understand a sunset comes about.

A sunset is caused by small particles of dust. Molecules and small particles in the atmosphere change the direction of light rays causing them to scatter which results in a colourful sunset. Sometimes pollution in the air can contribute and even enhance colours. 

During sunset and sunrise because the sun is low on the horizon, sunlight needs to pass through more air than it does during the day (when the sun is higher). Much of the blue light gets scattered away (due to the small particles in the air), making reds and oranges more pronounced. We see red because red wave lengths are the longest colour in the colour spectrum. Shorter wave lengths such as blue, violet and green are scattered and broken up.

From what I gather, it seems there are a few ingredients required for a good sunset ...

• mid to high level clouds
• 30 to 70% cloud coverage
• clean air
• lower humidity
• calm winds

Now that I'm a little better informed, here's hoping I'll be better prepared for the next spectacular sunset.

And a quote to finish the post:  

When the sun has set, no candle can replace it.

                                                                                                  George R.R. Martin