Table of Contents
Did you know that today is the longest day and shortest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, including Pakistan?
What is the Summer Solstice?
The longest day of the year is known as the Summer Solstice or “Khatt-e-Sartan.” This day marks the beginning of the true summer season, and various cultural rituals are associated with it.
The Science Behind the Summer Solstice
The Summer Solstice occurs when the North Pole is tilted closest to the sun and the sun is farthest from the equator. As a result, the Northern Hemisphere experiences the longest day (the day with the most daylight hours) and the shortest night of the year.
Interestingly, the date of the longest day changes slightly each year. For example, in 2024, it falls on June 21, but in 2025, it will be on June 22.
Changes After the Solstice
After June 22, the length of the day gradually decreases until the third week of December, when the Northern Hemisphere experiences the shortest day and the longest night of the year.
Read Also: Armenia Recognizes Palestine as a State Despite Israeli Opposition
Duration of Daylight
On the longest day of the year, the duration of daylight in Pakistan varies between 14 to 15 hours, depending on the location.
Globally, the longest day is observed in the central part of the U.S. state of Alaska, where the duration of daylight exceeds 21 hours.
The Opposite in the Southern Hemisphere
Conversely, today marks the shortest day and longest night of the year in the Southern Hemisphere, where winter officially begins. At the South Pole, in Antarctica, there is 24-hour darkness during this period.
Interesting Facts About the Summer Solstice
- Association with Fertility:
The Summer Solstice is linked to fertility as this period sees an increase in crop planting and growth. - Sun’s Position:
During the Solstice, the sun is directly above the Tropic of Cancer, and for a few days, it appears to stay in the same position at midday. Throughout the rest of the year, the sun’s position changes. - Ancient Egyptian New Year:
In ancient Egypt, the Summer Solstice marked the beginning of the New Year. - Earth’s Distance from the Sun:
Contrary to popular belief, the longest day does not mean that the Earth is closest to the sun. In fact, during the Summer Solstice, the Earth is farthest from the sun, while it is closest during the winter. - Reason for Summer Heat:
The increase in summer temperatures is due to the tilt of the Earth’s axis, not its distance from the sun.
Conclusion
The Summer Solstice is a fascinating astronomical event with various cultural, historical, and scientific aspects. It signifies the start of summer in the Northern Hemisphere, bringing the longest day and shortest night of the year. This period also highlights the intricate relationship between the Earth’s tilt and the changing seasons, debunking the myth that proximity to the sun affects summer temperatures. As we enjoy the long daylight hours, it’s interesting to reflect on how ancient civilizations celebrated this day and how it continues to be a significant marker in our calendar.