You'd think A refraction index with that kind of power would show a SUN or Moonrise shifting into view from the 'convex curve optical illusion' point (whereever that may be on the flat horizon). I guarantee you you goto the beach at sea level and watch a ship, you can watch them appear/disappear over the horizon even with a telescopic lens .. In your view , it's the density gradient that shifts them out of view right at the 3 mile horizon point 6ft above see level.

Why are the stars moving in the night sky in the same direction the Sun rises and sets?

You'd think A refraction index with that kind of power would show a SUN or Moonrise shifting into view from the 'convex curve optical illusion' point (whereever that may be on the flat horizon). I guarantee you you goto the beach at sea level and watch a ship, you can watch them appear/disappear over the horizon even with a telescopic lens .. In your view , it's the density gradient that shifts them out of view right at the 3 mile horizon point 6ft above see level.