the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, yesterday was the winter solstice also know as the shortest day of the year .
The winter solstice is an astronomical event that marks the shortest day and longest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. It occurs when the axial tilt of the Earth is farthest away from the sun, resulting in the sun reaching its lowest point in the sky at noon. In the Southern Hemisphere, the winter solstice corresponds to the longest day and shortest night.
Key points about the winter solstice include:
- Date: The winter solstice typically occurs around December 21st or 22nd in the Northern Hemisphere. In the Southern Hemisphere, it usually takes place around June 21st or 22nd.
- Sun’s Position: During the winter solstice, the sun appears at its lowest point in the sky at noon. This means that the length of daylight is at its minimum, making it the shortest day of the year.
- Axial Tilt: The Earth’s axis is tilted relative to its orbital plane around the sun. This tilt is responsible for the changing seasons as different parts of the Earth receive varying amounts of sunlight at different times of the year.
- Cultural Significance: The winter solstice has been celebrated in various cultures throughout history. Many cultures see it as a turning point, marking the gradual return of longer days and the promise of spring. Festivals and rituals often focus on themes of rebirth, renewal, and the triumph of light over darkness.
- Stonehenge: The ancient stone circle of Stonehenge in England is aligned with the winter solstice sunrise. The alignment suggests that the site may have been used for solstice-related ceremonies and observations.
- Scientific Explanation: The winter solstice occurs because of the Earth’s orbit around the sun. As the Earth orbits, the axial tilt causes different parts of the planet to receive varying amounts of sunlight at different times of the year.
After the winter solstice, the days gradually become longer as the Northern Hemisphere tilts back towards the sun. This marks the beginning of winter in the Northern Hemisphere, while in the Southern Hemisphere, it is the start of summer.
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