Sun pillars light up evening sky
Published: 18:45, 12 July 2025
A rare phenomenon known as sun pillars was spotted throughout the isles yesterday evening (Friday).
These vertical shafts of light can extend above or below the sun and most commonly appear during sunrise or sunset - with Kenny Williamson photographing the pillars in Gonfirth, Eid and Voe.
Sun pillars are formed when sunlight reflects off ice crystals which are often found in high-altitude cirrus clouds.
While they can occur at any time of the year, sun pillars are typically seen in winter, making this sighting all the more unusual.
The crystals act like mirrors which reflects the sunlight and emulate a long column of light.
Send in your images from this weekend by emailing editorial@shetlandtimes.co.uk


