WASHINGTON DC, United States — Crepuscular rays appear behind the Washington Monument just before sunrise around the spring equinox in Washington DC. The dramatic light display enhances the iconic obelisk on the National Mall.
Photograph by David Coleman. The Washington Monument, a 555-foot tall obelisk honoring America's first president, George Washington, stands as the centerpiece of the National Mall in Washington DC. Completed in 1884, it was designed by Robert Mills in the style of an Egyptian obelisk, symbolizing the timelessness of ancient civilizations and the enduring nature of the American republic. The monument is constructed primarily of marble, granite, and bluestone gneiss. The phenomenon of crepuscular rays, often called "God rays" or "sunbeams," occurs when sunlight streams through gaps in clouds or other objects, creating visible beams in the sky. This effect is particularly striking around the spring equinox, which typically falls on March 20 or 21, when day and night are nearly equal in length. The alignment of the sun with the monument during this period can create dramatic visual effects, drawing photographers and tourists alike. The Washington Monument, managed by the National Park Service, attracts millions of visitors annually and offers panoramic views of the capital city from its observation deck.
Size: 6871px × 4581px
Location: National Mall, Washington DC, District of Columbia, United States
Photo credit: © David Coleman | Have Camera Will Travel / Alamy / Afripics
License: Royalty Free
Model Released: No
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