Today, December 21, is Winter Solstice, the shortest day and longest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, the celestial event signifies the first day of winter, astronomically.
Each day after the solstice, we get one minute more of sunlight. It doesn’t sound like much, but after just two months, or around 60 days, we’ll be seeing about an hour more of sunlight.
Here’s what you need to know about this astronomical event:
Winter Solstice Moment: 4:21 am (ET)
Sunrise: 7:10 AM (IST)
Sunset: 5:29 PM (IST)
This occurs when the North Pole is tilted furthest away from the Sun, leading to the least amount of daylight in the Northern Hemisphere. Conversely, the Southern Hemisphere experiences its Summer Solstice, enjoying the longest day of the year.
Science Behind the December Solstice
The Earth’s 23.5-degree axial tilt is the primary reason for the solstice. During this event:
- The Sun’s rays directly hit the Tropic of Capricorn.
- Daylight duration decreases in the North and increases in the South.
The term “solstice”, derived from Latin, combines “sol” (Sun) and “sistere” (to stand still), symbolising the apparent pause of the Sun’s movement before it reverses direction.
Significance and Traditions
Across history, the Winter Solstice has been celebrated as a moment of renewal and balance. Various cultures hold festivals or rituals to honour the transition and the return of longer days.
Solstice traditions have influenced modern holidays like Christmas and Hanukkah.
The ancient Roman festival of Saturnalia, celebrating the end of the planting season, is linked to Christmas, with feasts, games, and gift-giving.
At Stonehenge, gatherings mark the solstice, as the site aligns with the sun. The Hopi tribe in Arizona celebrates with the Soyal Ceremony, while Peru honors the sun god with mock sacrifices.
Scandinavia’s St. Lucia’s Day is a festival of lights, and China’s Dong Zhi celebrates family and harvest with traditional foods.
In Antarctica, researchers celebrate midwinter with meals, movies, and homemade gifts.
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