Earth science picture of the day Ice roses

[The Eternal Flame]

 

Walking along a little road on a frigid December morning in the Aosta Valley of northwestern Italy, I couldn’t help but notice these delicate Ice roses. It had been quite cold, clear and calm here on several consecutive mornings. The morning temperatures dropped to at least 15 F (-10 C). Such conditions are nearly ideal for promoting ice crystal formation and growth. Crystal growth can occur quite rapidly if adequate water vapor is available to condense onto the incipient flower-like structures. The diameter of the biggest rose at lower center is approximately 1.5 in (4 cm). Photo taken on December 14, 2013. https://epod.usra.edu/

 

[Hankenhunter]

Sorry Debra, but there are no pics in your links. 

[Eldorado]

Here they are...

https://epod.usra.edu/blog/2014/02/ice-roses.html

[Hankenhunter]

9 minutes ago, Eldorado said:

Here they are...

https://epod.usra.edu/blog/2014/02/ice-roses.html

Thanks L.D! 

[Hankenhunter]

12 hours ago, debra odem said:

 

Walking along a little road on a frigid December morning in the Aosta Valley of northwestern Italy, I couldn’t help but notice these delicate Ice roses. It had been quite cold, clear and calm here on several consecutive mornings. The morning temperatures dropped to at least 15 F (-10 C). Such conditions are nearly ideal for promoting ice crystal formation and growth. Crystal growth can occur quite rapidly if adequate water vapor is available to condense onto the incipient flower-like structures. The diameter of the biggest rose at lower center is approximately 1.5 in (4 cm). Photo taken on December 14, 2013. https://epod.usra.edu/

 

That was beautiful. Funny how I've never noticed this before, considering I live in Canada. Probably because I'm always looking for tracks. Time to wake up and smell the wonder. Thanks Debra.