Viral Video of Red Sky, IPB University Professor Straightens the ‘Falling Sun’ Narrative

A recent video depicting a red sky in Aceh during the day has sparked public discussion and confusion, with some claiming it shows a ‘falling sun.’ To address these claims, Professor Husin Alatas, a theoretical physics expert at IPB University, provided a scientific explanation of the phenomenon.

Professor Alatas explained that under clear sky conditions, the sky appears blue due to Rayleigh scattering, where shorter wavelengths of light are scattered more effectively by air molecules. However, during sunrise or sunset, the sky often takes on red or orange hues due to the sun’s position below the horizon, allowing longer wavelengths to dominate the observer’s view.

He noted that other atmospheric factors, such as the presence of aerosols or fine dust, can also influence sky color. These scattering processes, collectively referred to as Mie scattering, can lead to a reddish appearance even when the sun is still high in the sky if there is a high concentration of particles due to pollution or other sources.

In addressing the ‘falling sun’ narrative, Professor Alatas clarified that such a claim is not scientifically valid. He emphasized the immense size and distance of the sun, explaining that it is impossible for it to fall to Earth.