Get Ready for Later Sunsets and Longer Days!

SAN DIEGO (KSWB/KUSI) – Friday marks the start of the summer solstice in the northern half of the globe, according to NASA and the Old Farmer’s Almanac. The summer solstice is significant because during this time, the sun will reach its northernmost point in the sky.

Due to the tilt of Earth’s axis, the sun usually does not rise and set in the same place on the horizon. However, during the solstice, the sun’s apparent path will not change for some time.

What is the Summer Solstice?

The summer solstice is the day when the sun is at its highest point in the sky, resulting in the longest day of the year. It occurs when the Earth’s axis is tilted at its maximum angle of 23.5 degrees towards the Sun. This means that the Sun’s rays hit the Earth directly, resulting in more daylight hours and warmer temperatures.

Friday also marks the astronomical start of summer in the Northern Hemisphere and the longest day of the year for those living in places north of the equator. By contrast, those living in the Southern Hemisphere refer to it as the astronomical start of the winter season. This is because below the equator, the sun appears to be at its lowest point in the sky.

Is Friday the Official Start of Summer?

There is a difference between astronomical and meteorological summer. Although Friday marks the start of astronomical summer for those in the Northern Hemisphere, meteorologists typically take into account the months and corresponding temperatures when dividing the year into four seasons.

The length of meteorological seasons is also more consistent and ranges between 90 to 92 days. In the Northern Hemisphere, meteorological summer consists of June, July, and August. The astronomical calendar is marked by the times when the sun goes over the equator. According to NOAA, since Earth’s orbit around the sun is elliptical, the lengths of the astronomical seasons vary between 89 and 93 days.

When Will the Sun Set on Friday?

The sunset times and length of daylight vary by location, depending on where you live. In Los Angeles, for instance, solar noon – or the time when the sun reaches its highest point in the sky – is expected to happen at 12:54 p.m. PDT, according to TimeAndDate.com.

The sun will rise in Los Angeles at 5:41 a.m. and set at 8:06 p.m., according to TimeAndDate.com, with the solstice at 7:42 p.m. On the other side of the country in Tampa, Florida, the sun will rise at 6:33 a.m. with solar noon occurring at 1:31 p.m. ET. The summer solstice will happen at 10:42 p.m. ET.

How Does the Summer Solstice Affect the Environment?

The summer solstice has a significant impact on the environment. The longer days and warmer temperatures result in increased plant growth and vegetation. This, in turn, supports a wide range of wildlife, from insects to large mammals. The summer solstice also marks the beginning of the warmest season of the year, which can lead to droughts, heatwaves, and wildfires in some regions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the summer solstice is a significant event that marks the beginning of the longest day of the year and the astronomical start of summer in the Northern Hemisphere. While it may not be the official start of summer according to meteorological definitions, it is an important milestone in the Earth’s journey around the sun. As we enjoy the longer days and warmer temperatures, let’s not forget the impact that the summer solstice has on our environment and the importance of preserving our planet for future generations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the summer solstice?

A: The summer solstice is the day when the sun is at its highest point in the sky, resulting in the longest day of the year.

Q: When does the summer solstice occur?

A: The summer solstice typically occurs on June 20 or 21 in the Northern Hemisphere, and December 21 or 22 in the Southern Hemisphere.

Q: What is the difference between astronomical and meteorological summer?

A: Astronomical summer refers to the period between the summer solstice and the autumnal equinox, while meteorological summer refers to the months of June, July, and August in the Northern Hemisphere.

Q: How does the summer solstice affect the environment?

A: The summer solstice has a significant impact on the environment, resulting in increased plant growth and vegetation, and supporting a wide range of wildlife. However, it can also lead to droughts, heatwaves, and wildfires in some regions.