Skywatchers across Malta were treated to a breathtaking sight yesterday evening: an optical phenomenon known as a ‘mock sun’ or parhelion - and sometimes even referred to as 'sun dog' - appearing above the islands.

The local weather page 'It-Temp Madwarna' shared an incredible shot of the phenomenon taken by Debbie Pisani, explaining that this rare display featured a bright halo encircling the sun, sometimes with luminous spots on either side, creating the illusion of multiple suns in the sky. The effect, which looks almost otherworldly, occurs when sunlight passes through icy crystals in high-altitude cirrus clouds, bending and reflecting the light at just the right angles (specifically 22°).

The result is a stunning halo of refracted light, often glowing with subtle rainbow hues, making for a natural spectacle that always captures the attention of those lucky enough to see it.

This sight, aside from being aesthetically beautiful, is also a sign that the weather is cooling down, which will be happy news for those looking forward to winter!

Did you see it?