Rainbows are known for brightening up the sky and are often seen as a symbol of hope – but many people don't know what they actually are.

People have recently been left stunned after learning something new about the super pretty features in the sky. It's hard not to smile when you see the colourful weather phenomenon up above, but a lot of people don't realise that the amazing spectacle is a lot more than a multi-coloured semi-circle arch in the sky.

According to Toll Ambulance Rescue aircrew officer, Steve, they actually form a full circle, but can only be seen in full from the sky. He shared an amazing snap to show exactly what he means.

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In a captivating Facebook post, he wrote: "Did you know that rainbows are actually a full circle? We usually see only an arch because the ground and horizon block the rest of the circle. But from up in the sky, like Aircrew Officer Steve, you can see the whole thing!"

A rainbow is actually an optical illusion that's created when sunlight hits rain or water droplets at a very specific angle of 42 degrees. At least that's what National Geographic says.

Every rainbow you see is actually a full circle, and the centre is referred to as the antisolar point. It can only be seen in its entirety from above.

When you're on the ground you can see it from a different view, and each person will see it a little differently. People have been amazed by the explanation – and the impressive image has left many people in awe.

One woman replied: "Very interesting indeed. Something I never knew. Amazing photos." Another added: "Yep, we were in a hot air balloon in Northam and saw a round rainbow. I was amazed."

Another chirped in with: "So no pot of gold? Would rather the full beautiful circle anyway. So very pretty. Meanwhile, a fourth simply wrote: "Amazing."

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