Winter solstice 2023: India to experience longest night of the year ...

New Delhi,UPDATED: Dec 21, 2023 11:29 IST

As the Northern Hemisphere braces for the chill of winter, it also prepares to witness the astronomical phenomenon that marks the official onset of the season: the winter solstice.

On Thursday, India, along with several other countries in the Northern Hemisphere, will experience the shortest day and consequently the longest night of the year.

Astronomically, the solstice occurs at the precise moment when the North Pole is tilted furthest away from the Sun, resulting in the least amount of daylight and the longest period of darkness. This year, the solstice takes place on December 21, according to The Old Farmer's Almanack.

The science behind this event is rooted in the Earth's axial tilt of approximately 23.5 degrees. As our planet orbits the sun, this tilt causes varying amounts of sunlight to reach different parts of the world at different times of the year.

During the winter solstice, the Northern Hemisphere is angled away from the sun, leading to shorter days and longer nights.

In terms of daylight, the Northern Hemisphere will see about 7 hours and 14 minutes of light today, marking the peak of winter's grip with its brief days and extended shadows. Despite the darkness, the solstice is also a turning point, as each subsequent day will slowly grow longer, inching towards the warmth and brightness of spring.

The winter solstice, an event celebrated and revered throughout history, symbolizes more than just a change in the calendar.

Cultures across the globe have long observed this day with various rituals and traditions, from lighting lanterns to setting intentions for the coming months.

The winter solstice serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring cycles of nature and the ever-present promise of light's return.