In an unprecedented phenomenon, seven suns were observed in the sky over Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan province in southwest China, on Monday.
This astounding and rare occurrence is likely the result of light refraction and dispersion in the atmosphere, according to experts.
“This phenomenon is called a ‘sun halo’,” explained a local astronomer. “It is caused by the refraction of sunlight through ice crystals in the atmosphere, which leads to the appearance of multiple images of the sun in the sky.”
The astronomer noted that this kind of celestial event is quite uncommon, and typically occurs during the winter months when temperatures are low and ice crystals form in the atmosphere.
He stressed that this natural phenomenon poses no danger or threat, and is simply a captivating optical illusion in the sky.
Photographs of this bizarre celestial display have been widely circulated on social media, sparking awe and wonder among citizens in China and around the world.