The Fata Morgana effect occurs when a layer of cold air lies beneath warmer air above the ocean. Light traveling from a distant ship passes through these air layers and bends repeatedly because each layer has a different density. This atmospheric refraction curves the light downward toward the observer, causing the brain to perceive the ship higher than its actual position. As temperatures change, the image may stretch, distort, or appear suspended in the sky. Sources: National Weather Service. “Mirages.” National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, weather.gov/source/zhu/ZHU_Training_Page/optical_stuff/Mirages/Mirages.html. Want more interesting content like this ? Follow gravitonomy :) Via : Unknown No copyright infringement intended. Kindly DM for Credit/Removal/Collaboration :) #science #fatamorgana #boats #refraction #physics