Capturing the Ethereal Beauty of Moon Dogs in Alaska’s Frigid Winter
Living in Alaska offers a front-row seat to breathtaking natural phenomena that are rare elsewhere. One such spectacle is the appearance of moon dogs, also known as paraselenes—a captivating optical illusion that occurs under specific atmospheric conditions.
Recently, I had the extraordinary opportunity to photograph moon dogs during the harsh winter in Alaska, where temperatures plummeted to -28°F (-33°C). Utilizing an iPhone 16 Pro set at 13mm f/2.2, I captured these luminous spots that dance on either side of the moon along a luminous halo—a phenomenon caused by the refraction of moonlight through ice crystals suspended in the cold air.
This particular display was, by far, the most vivid and vibrant moon dog phenomenon I’ve witnessed in my 14 years of residing in interior Alaska. The extreme cold creates the perfect environment for the formation of these intricate ice crystals, which bend the moon’s light and produce this mesmerizing visual.
Experiencing and documenting such natural wonders underscores the unique beauty that Alaska’s harsh winter conditions can reveal. For photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, these moments serve as a poignant reminder of the remarkable interactions between atmospheric science and the natural world.
If you’re ever in Alaska during the winter months, keep an eye on the sky after dark—the sight of moon dogs might just be the awe-inspiring spectacle you encounter on your journey.