What happens during the winter solstice? Here's why this day is the shortest day of the year, with the fewest hours of daylight. The winter solstice falls on Dec. 21 or 22 every year in the Northern Hemisphere.
The winter solstice heralds the astronomical start of winter and marks the day with the fewest hours of daylight for the year. But what's the science behind the shortest day and longest night?
What happens to the sun on the winter solstice?On the December winter solstice, there are fewer hours of sunlight the farther north you go in the Northern Hemisphere. People in this hemisphere might notice that the sun is not that high in the sky, even at noon. The date varies because the Gregorian calendar has 365 days, with an extra leap day added in February every four years. In reality, Earth's orbit around the sun takes 365.25 days, NASA reported . Due to this discrepancy, the winter solstice doesn't always occur on the same day.
How long is winter?Astronomically, or according to the solstices and equinoxes, winter begins on the winter solstice and ends on the spring equinox. So, winter in the Northern Hemisphere lasts from Dec. 21 or 22 until March 19, 20 or 21. Because Earth has an oval, or elliptical orbit, the seasons aren't the same length; winter lasts an average of 89 days in the Northern Hemisphere and an average of 93.6 days in the Southern Hemisphere, according to timeanddate.com .
Australia Latest News, Australia Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Winter Dandruff Is A Thing: How To Combat The Winter Flakes - Love for GlamWinter dandruff is not a medical problem, but a visual problem. How many times does it happen that you feel embarrassed because you have visible dandruff on the shoulders of your clothes? But, like any problem, dandruff can be kept under control with appropriate haircare.
Read more »
Polar air and a powerful winter storm put millions under winter alerts this holiday week | CNNFor millions of Americans across a large swath of the country, the holiday week is beginning with unrelenting below-freezing temperatures made even more miserable by heavy snow expected Tuesday and Wednesday in several central and northwestern states.
Read more »
Holiday travel weather forecast: As winter storm bears down, some scramble to change plansThe Chicago weather forecast is showing a significant amount of snow this week, and those using air travel are scrambling to change their plans.
Read more »
38 Clothing Items For Winter That Are Cute And WarmRip-resistant tights, fleece-lined sweats, jackets and other pieces perfect for all your cold weather needs.
Read more »
Chicago winter storm outlook: Latest projections and forecastAn incoming winter storm could bring blizzard conditions to Chicago this week with wind gusts over 50 mph and roughly a foot of snow.
Read more »