On Saturday 25th November, a celestial halo was spotted circling the moon. This bright mysterious ring was seen from a garden in Maiden bower. This phenomenon is an optical illusion called a luna halo. It is caused by the refraction, reflection and dispersion of moonlight caused by thin clouds of ice crystals suspended in the upper atmosphere. As the moonlight passes through them, the light is bent and it focuses into a ring.
In folklore, moon halos have been regarded as omens of rainfall or bad weather. Spiritually, however, luna halos symbolise feminine energy and are thought to be signs of good luck.
In Hinduism, a moon halo is said to be a sign of good fortune and conducive to success. It is often associated with the Hindu god of the moon, the deity Chandra.
Many native American tribes have their own interpretations of the moon halo. In some tribes, a luna halo is thought to be a message from the spirit world, while others believe it to be a symbol or peace and balance in the world.
In Christianity, moon halos are believed to be messages from God. They are a symbol of God’s love and are a sign that God is watching over us. Luna halos are also seen as a symbol of the divine presence and in Judaism, they are thought to be the same.
The mesmerising appearance of lunar halos are less common than solar halos and depend on several factors coinciding with one another. This naturally occurring marvel stunned all who saw it, but moon halos are not as rare as some may believe. Luna halos can happen at any time during the year, however are more common in the winter months. But this means that if you didn’t see this breath-taking phenomenon, you might be able to spot another one soon!
