One of the most magical phenomenon in Yosemite National Park are moonbows, otherwise known as lunar rainbows. This past week clear skies, a full moon and waterfalls at peak flow provided optimal conditions to photograph moonbows. Interestingly enough due to the physiology of our eyes it is not possible to see moonbows at night. The rods in our retinas take over in low light conditions making everything appear bluish black & white in what is referred to as scotopic vision. Fortunately camera sensors are more than capable of capturing moonbows in full color.
Below is a view of the moonbow above Upper Yosemite Falls as seen from Sentinel Meadow. The heavy flow of the waterfalls last week created a water wonderland in Yosemite Valley pushing the Merced River above flood stage and submerging numerous meadows. I’ll post more photos soon to highlight just how high the water level was in addition to some surreal landscapes. Stay tuned.
Lunar Rainbow (Moonbow) over Upper Yosemite Falls, Yosemite National Park
[tags]photography, Yosemite, National Park, moonbow, lunar rainbow, travel, stock photo, stock pictures[/tags]
Sweet shot Jim!
Sweet shot Jim!