Fata Morgana by Eleanor Hawking

'Fata Morgana' delves into one of nature's most captivating optical illusions, where objects appear to float, distort, or invert in the atmosphere. This comprehensive exploration reveals how specific atmospheric conditions, particularly temperature inversions where warm air sits above cool air, create natural refractive lenses that bend light in extraordinary ways. The phenomenon has not only puzzled observers for centuries but has also influenced maritime history, scientific understanding, and polar expeditions.

The book progresses through three main sections, beginning with the fundamental physics of atmospheric optics and light behavior through air density gradients. It then transitions to documented historical sightings, including the remarkable 1936 case off Sicily's coast where an entire fleet appeared to float upside down in the sky. The final section examines modern research methodologies and prediction technologies, connecting traditional observations with contemporary science.

What makes this work particularly valuable is its interdisciplinary approach, weaving together meteorology, physics, and historical research while maintaining accessibility for both academic and general readers. Through detailed case studies and previously unpublished expedition logs, the book illuminates how these atmospheric displays have impacted navigation, influenced folklore, and contributed to our understanding of climate science. Technical concepts are explained through practical examples, making complex atmospheric physics comprehensible without sacrificing scientific accuracy.