Sunset Seattle Sept 2

Caroline Mae

less than a minute read

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27-12-2024

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Seattle, known for its iconic Space Needle and vibrant coffee scene, offers a breathtaking spectacle often overlooked: its sunsets. September 2nd provided a particularly stunning display, captivating locals and visitors alike.

The Magic Hour: Capturing the Golden Light

The "golden hour," that period shortly after sunrise or before sunset, painted the Seattle skyline in hues of fiery orange, soft pink, and deep violet. The clouds, often a dramatic feature of the Pacific Northwest sky, acted as a canvas, reflecting and diffusing the light in mesmerizing ways. Photographers, armed with their cameras and tripods, flocked to vantage points across the city to capture the ephemeral beauty.

Popular Viewing Spots:

Several locations provided exceptional views of the sunset on September 2nd. These included:

• Kerry Park: A classic spot offering panoramic views of the city skyline, including the Space Needle and Mount Rainier (weather permitting).
• Gas Works Park: This unique park, built on the site of a former gas plant, offers a striking contrast between industrial architecture and the natural beauty of the sunset.
• Discovery Park: Located at the tip of Magnolia, this park provided stunning views across Puget Sound, with the Olympic Mountains silhouetted against the fiery sky.

More Than Just a Pretty Picture: The Science Behind the Beauty

The vibrant colours observed during Seattle's sunsets are a result of the scattering of sunlight in the Earth's atmosphere. As the sun descends closer to the horizon, its light travels through a longer path in the atmosphere. This increased path length causes shorter wavelengths of light (blues and greens) to be scattered away, leaving the longer wavelengths (reds and oranges) to dominate the visible spectrum. This phenomenon is what creates the spectacular colours we see.

A Memorable Moment:

The September 2nd sunset in Seattle was more than just a pretty picture; it was a shared experience, a moment of collective awe, and a reminder of the natural beauty that surrounds us. Whether captured through the lens of a camera or simply witnessed with the naked eye, it remains a cherished memory for those fortunate enough to have experienced it.