Winter Solstice 2024: When is the December solstice? Know Exact Date, Time and more about the Longest Night of the year

Winter / December Solstice 2024 (Image: Idaho Statesman)

The Winter Solstice is one of the most significant astronomical events of the year. In 2024, this event will occur on Saturday, December 21. But what exactly is the Winter Solstice, and why is it so important? Let’s explore the science behind it and its cultural significance.

The Winter Solstice marks the shortest day and longest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. It occurs when the Earth's axial tilt is farthest from the Sun, reaching a maximum of 23.5 degrees. This results in the Sun’s rays striking the Northern Hemisphere at their weakest, leading to the shortest daylight hours of the year.

In simple terms, during the Winter Solstice, the Northern Hemisphere is tilted away from the Sun, and that’s why we experience shorter days. On the other hand, in the Southern Hemisphere, it is the Summer Solstice, meaning the day is the longest of the year.

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For 2024, the Winter Solstice will fall on December 21, with the exact moment occurring at 2:49 PM IST. This will be the point where the Sun appears at its lowest position in the sky, resulting in the shortest day and longest night for those in the Northern Hemisphere.

The solstices happen twice each year, once in June and once in December. In June, the Summer Solstice occurs in the Northern Hemisphere, while it is the Winter Solstice in the Southern Hemisphere. Similarly, in December, when it is Winter Solstice in the Northern Hemisphere, it is the Summer Solstice in the Southern Hemisphere.

To avoid confusion, the solstices are often referred to as the June Solstice (Northern Solstice) and the December Solstice (Southern Solstice). These terms are used to differentiate between the two events based on the hemisphere experiencing winter or summer.

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In Hindu astrology, the Winter Solstice is called Tropical Uttarayana, which marks the start of the sun's northward journey. However, Sidereal Uttarayana, which is based on the starry sky, begins from Makara Sankranti, which falls in mid-January. Uttarayana is considered an auspicious period for spiritual practices and beginning important ventures.

The Winter Solstice also marks the beginning of Devkal — a time considered highly beneficial for starting auspicious work in Hindu culture.

The Winter Solstice is more than just an astronomical event; it’s seen as a time of transition and renewal. Many cultures across the world celebrate this time as a turning point, where the Sun’s return begins to bring lighter each day, symbolising hope, renewal, and the arrival of spring.

In conclusion, the Winter Solstice of 2024 will be a significant event that holds both scientific and cultural importance. Whether you observe it through astronomy or spiritual traditions, it’s a moment to reflect on the changing seasons and the cyclical nature of life. Make sure to mark December 21 in your calendar and witness the shortest day of the year!

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