Summer Solstice Marks the Start of Longer Days in San Diego
SAN DIEGO, CA (KSWB/KUSI) – Get ready to enjoy extended evenings and longer daylight hours!
This Friday heralds the arrival of the summer solstice in the northern hemisphere. According to NASA and the Old Farmer’s Almanac, this astronomical event signifies that the sun will reach its highest position in the sky for the year.
Thanks to the tilt of Earth’s axis, the sun doesn’t rise or set at the same spot on the horizon throughout the year. However, during the solstice, its trajectory remains relatively unchanged for an extended period, providing a unique opportunity for stargazers and sun-chasers.
The Astronomical Start of Summer
Marking not only the solstice but also the official beginning of summer for those in the Northern Hemisphere, this day features the longest daylight hours of the year. In contrast, residents of the Southern Hemisphere will experience this time as the start of winter, as the sun appears at its lowest elevation in their skies.
Understanding Seasons: Astronomical vs. Meteorological
It’s important to note the distinction between astronomical and meteorological seasons. While the solstice kicks off astronomical summer in the Northern Hemisphere, meteorologists define summer based on temperature patterns, spanning June, July, and August.
Astronomical seasons are determined by solar positions relative to the equator and fluctuate in length from 89 to 93 days due to Earth’s elliptical orbit.
Sunset Hours on Solstice Day
Sunset times will vary based on your location. In Los Angeles, for instance, the sun will rise at 5:41 AM and set at 8:06 PM PDT, with solar noon occurring at 12:54 PM. The peak of the summer solstice will occur around 7:42 PM.
Conversely, in Tampa, Florida, residents will see the sun rise at 6:33 AM and experience solar noon at 1:31 PM ET, with the solstice officially taking place at 10:42 PM ET.
As the summer unfolds, this solstice serves as a reminder of the beauty and brightness that the season promises. Enjoy the longer days ahead!