Bows And Blows
Saskia Sparshott | @SaskiaNurturale
A rainy afternoon over the Bicheno Blowhole resulted in a stunning burst of pinky orange, followed by a double rainbow. A rainbow is formed through a multi-step process. Firstly, refraction occurs when sunlight enters a raindrop and then bends as it slows down, separating the colours. The light then bounces off the back of the raindrop in the second phase, known as reflection. Lastly, as the light exits the raindrop, it bends again and displays a brilliant array of colour. Just to add to this process, occasionally the sunlight reflects twice while inside the raindrop, and this results in a brilliant double rainbow. Accompanied by a reverse sunset (as the higher clouds reflected the sun’s brilliant colours), and the power of the waves thrusting the water plumes high into the air, this stunning mesh of scientific phenomena blended seamlessly to create this image.
BEAKER STREET SCIENCE PHOTOGRAPHY PRIZE
This photograph was a finalist in Beaker Street’s annual Science Photography Prize. This highly-respected prize invites amateur and professional photographers to showcase the wonders of our extraordinary part of the world — which is teeming with science and scientists. Finalist images are displayed at the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery during Beaker Street Festival each August, with great prizes on offer for Judges’ and People’s Choice winners.
The Beaker Street Science Photography Prize is sponsored by Pennicott Foundation — thank you crew! It would not be possible without the support of Full Gamut, Tasmania’s premier fine art printers, as well as the wonderful Tasmanian businesses who donate prizes.
