July Fourth was celebrated on the pond this year by a rare natural effect, one that occurs when the low evening sun reflects off windows on the opposite, eastern shore, and thence onto the water, producing a fabulous, glittering display.
Remembering my high school physics, I realized that I can see this effect only when the angle of incidence and the angle of reflection happen to favor my point of observation, a rare occurrence.
Every time I’ve seen this, it has been from my window, which is just high enough, apparently, to let me catch the angle of reflection off the water.
This entire event lasted just three minutes, before the setting sun fell below a low rise behind me.
The first time I witnessed this dazzling effect was the most impressive and thrilling. My sense of wonder was barely disguised in reporting it.
The second time I saw it, I impulsively ran out in the yard to get a closer shot, only to realize when I got there, that I had lost the critical angle of reflection. By the time I dashed back in to the window, the effect was almost gone.
I chose this photo from thirteen that I took in rapid sequence at about 7:52 pm on Independence Day. Click the image to view it full screen, and click the back arrow to return. Cursor over for its description. Enjoy!