A strong decrease in reflection of a probe laser radiation at wavelength 0.66 mu m from the surface of molten copper in argon atmosphere is observed in laboratory experiments for the first time. Theoretical estimates based on the Mie theory indicated that this effect can be qualitatively explained by a condensation of copper vapor leading to formation of sub-micron droplets levitating above the sample. This physical model is supported by the observed diffuse scattering of incident radiation and also by a regular structure of small crystals on solid sample surface after its cooling. This structure is similar to a solidified cluster of melt droplets after the crystallization of single droplets of copper melt and subsequent growth of the crystals. (C) 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.