Rainbows caused by sunlight always appear in the section of sky directly opposite the Sun.
When you see a rainbow, you are observing sunlight that has been bent and reflected by airborne water droplets, such as rain or mist. This fascinating optical phenomenon consistently positions the arc of colors in a specific area of the sky relative to the light source – the Sun.
Think of it this way: if the Sun is low in the west as it sets, you would look towards the east to find a rainbow. Conversely, if the Sun is rising in the east, the rainbow would be visible towards the west.
Here are some practical tips for spotting a rainbow:
- Look away from the Sun. The rainbow will always be in the opposite direction.
- Rainbows are most common when the Sun is low in the sky (morning or late afternoon) and there is rain happening in the distance in the direction away from the Sun.
- Ensure you have a clear view of the sky in the direction opposite the Sun.
Understanding where to look based on the Sun's position greatly increases your chances of finding this beautiful display of light and color in the sky.
