Holiday lights and the season of cheer may mask the fact that the darkest day of the year is fast approaching on December 21. As the Northern Hemisphere’s winter solstice approaches, here is everything you need to know about the shortest day of the year for the more than 6 billion people living north of the equator.
Understanding the Winter Solstice
Thursday, December 21, will mark this year’s winter solstice for the Northern Hemisphere, bringing the shortest day and longest night of the year. Solstices occur twice a year when “the sun’s path appears farthest north or south, depending on which half of the planet you’re on,” according to NASA.
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Due to the Earth’s tilt, the winter solstice occurs when the Northern Hemisphere is tilted the furthest away from the sun, which will happen at 10:27 p.m. ET. The Southern Hemisphere will experience the most amount of direct sunlight during this time, resulting in their longest day.
Is December 21 the Shortest Day of the Year?
For those in the United States, December 21 is indeed the shortest day of the year due to the lack of direct sunlight. “All locations north of the equator see daylight shorter than 12 hours and all locations south see daylight longer than 12 hours,” as stated by NASA.
Why is the Winter Solstice Known as the First Day of Winter?
The two solstices are considered to be the start of the astronomical winter and summer seasons. According to the National Centers for Environmental Information, the astronomical seasons are marked by solstices and equinoxes, which are the points at which the sun aligns over the equator. On the other hand, meteorological seasons split the year into three-month groups based on temperature cycles and are more closely tied to our monthly civil calendar.
What Comes After the Winter Solstice?
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On the bright side, each day after the solstice in the Northern Hemisphere will have more daylight, gradually leading to the summer solstice on June 20, 2024. So, while the winter solstice may mark the darkest day, it also signifies the return of longer, brighter days.
The Significance of the Winter Solstice
Humans have recognized the significance of solstices for thousands of years. Ancient civilizations, including those responsible for structures such as Stonehenge and the Torreon in Machu Picchu, Peru, designed their creations to follow the sun’s path relative to the Earth. These structures serve as a testament to our ancestors’ understanding and reverence for the changing seasons.
As we approach the first day of winter on December 21, let us take a moment to appreciate the beauty and significance of the winter solstice. Although it may be the shortest day of the year, the promise of longer, brighter days ahead brings warmth to our hearts.
Source: https://t-tees.com
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