Winter Solstice 2024: As longest night and shortest day of the year arrives, here’s what causes this phenomenon

The winter solstice, an astronomical event marking the official start of winter in the Northern Hemisphere, is celebrated worldwide for its cultural and historical importance. This event brings the shortest day and longest night of the year as the North Pole tilts farthest from the Sun. Here’s everything you need to know about the winter solstice 2024.

Winter Solstice 2024: Date and time

This year, the winter solstice will occur on Saturday, December 21. The phenomenon is caused by the Earth’s 23.5-degree tilt on its axis, which creates seasonal changes. The exact timing of the solstice varies slightly each year due to the Earth’s elliptical orbit and the Gregorian calendar’s leap year cycle.

What causes the Winter Solstice?

As the Earth orbits the Sun, its axial tilt causes the hemispheres to receive varying amounts of sunlight, leading to contrasting seasons. During the Northern Hemisphere’s winter, the North Pole is tilted away from the Sun, resulting in shorter days and longer nights. The winter solstice marks the point in this cycle when the day is at its shortest and the night is at its longest.

In the Northern Hemisphere, the winter solstice typically occurs on December 21 or 22, while in the Southern Hemisphere, it takes place on June 20 or 21. According to NASA, this variation arises from the Earth’s orbital mechanics and calendar discrepancies.

Significance of the Winter Solstice

The winter solstice holds deep cultural, historical, and astronomical significance. For centuries, civilizations have celebrated this turning point with traditions emphasizing the “return” of the Sun. Iconic ancient structures like Stonehenge are aligned to capture the solstice’s sunrise or sunset, showcasing the event’s importance to early societies.

Beyond its historical and cultural resonance, the solstice symbolises renewal and hope. Following December 21, days gradually lengthen, heralding the promise of light and warmth. This astronomical shift has inspired countless celebrations and rituals, marking the solstice as a time of reflection and optimism for brighter days ahead.