What is the December Solstice?

The December Solstice, occurring annually on or around December 21st or 22nd, is a significant astronomical event marking the shortest day and longest night in the Northern Hemisphere and the longest day and shortest night in the Southern Hemisphere. This event happens when the Earth’s axial tilt is at its maximum angle away from or toward the Sun, directly aligning the Sun with the Tropic of Capricorn.

The December Solstice is often associated with cultural celebrations, seasonal transitions, and natural phenomena that vary between the two hemispheres.

The Science Behind the December Solstice

What Causes the December Solstice?

The Earth is tilted at an angle of approximately 23.5 degrees on its axis. As the Earth orbits the Sun, this tilt causes different parts of the planet to receive varying amounts of sunlight throughout the year. During the December Solstice:

• The Northern Hemisphere tilts away from the Sun, resulting in shorter days and longer nights.
• The Southern Hemisphere tilts toward the Sun, experiencing longer days and shorter nights.

This positioning also marks the official start of winter in the Northern Hemisphere and summer in the Southern Hemisphere.

The Sun’s Position on the Solstice

On the day of the December Solstice, the Sun appears at its lowest point in the sky…