Understanding Solstices: The Science Behind the Longest and Shortest Days of the Year

solstice

The two days of the year on which the sun reaches its greatest distance north or south of the equator

A solstice refers to the two times a year when the position of the Earth’s axis is inclined either towards or away from the sun, resulting in the longest and shortest days of the year. Specifically, the summer solstice (June solstice) occurs around June 20 or 21 in the Northern Hemisphere and December 21 or 22 in the Southern Hemisphere. This is when the Earth’s axis tilts most towards the sun, resulting in the longest day of the year and shortest night in the Northern Hemisphere and vice versa in the Southern Hemisphere. The winter solstice (December solstice) occurs around December 21 or 22 in the Northern Hemisphere and June 20 or 21 in the Southern Hemisphere. This is when the Earth’s axis tilts most away from the sun, resulting in the longest night of the year and shortest day in the Northern Hemisphere and vice versa in the Southern Hemisphere. The solstices have been celebrated by various cultures and societies throughout history and are often associated with festivals, celebrations, and rituals.

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