The winter solstice occurred on December 21, 2024, marking the shortest day and longest night of the year for the Northern Hemisphere. This astronomical event signifies the official start of winter, as the sun reaches its most southerly point in the sky, directly overhead at the Tropic of Capricorn.
At 4:21 a.m. ET, the solstice was officially recorded, coinciding with the moment the Northern Hemisphere is tilted 23.5 degrees away from the sun. This tilt results in reduced sunlight and cooler temperatures, characteristics of the winter season.
As the days progress post-solstice, daylight will gradually increase, with each day becoming slightly longer until the summer solstice in June. This year, the winter solstice was celebrated at various locations worldwide, including traditional gatherings at Stonehenge, where thousands welcomed the sunrise.
Historical records indicate that solstices have been observed for millennia, often accompanied by cultural rituals and celebrations. In many cultures, the winter solstice is seen as a time of renewal and hope, symbolizing the return of light as days begin to lengthen.
Earth's seasonal changes are primarily due to its axial tilt rather than its distance from the sun. In fact, the planet will reach its closest point to the sun, known as perihelion, on January 4, 2025.