Why TONIGHT will be the longest of 2025
The winter solstice marks the point when the Earth's axial tilt is furthest away from the sun in your hemisphere. Image: Wikimedia Commons
The winter solstice is the shortest day and longest night of the year, marking the point when the Earth's axial tilt is furthest away from the sun in your hemisphere.
It occurs once a year, around 20 or 21 June in the southern hemisphere.
In the northern hemisphere, this same day is known as the summer solstice, as it's their longest day and shortest night.
🗓️ Date: Saturday, 21 June
🕓 Time: Approximately 22:42
At this time, the sun reaches its most northerly point in the sky relative to the southern hemisphere, and the region experiences its fewest daylight hours. The sun rises latest and sets earliest
Daylight is at its shortest – roughly 10 hours or less in many parts of South Africa
– roughly 10 hours or less in many parts of South Africa The sun appears at its lowest noon altitude in the sky
in the sky After this point, days gradually begin to lengthen, signaling the slow return toward summer Colder mornings and nights: This is usually the peak of South Africa's cold, dry winter , especially inland
This is usually the peak of South Africa's , especially inland Longer nights: Perfect for stargazing, since the skies are often clearer in winter
Perfect for stargazing, since the skies are often clearer in winter Cultural observances: Some Indigenous African communities and spiritual groups mark the solstice with seasonal rituals or ceremonial gatherings
Some Indigenous African communities and spiritual groups mark the solstice with or Agricultural relevance: Traditionally, it signaled the turning point for winter crops or preparation for spring planting In Cape Town , the sun will rise at 07:51 and set at 17:44 on the winter solstice
, the sun will rise at and set at on the winter solstice The term 'solstice' comes from Latin solstitium , meaning ' sun stands still ', referring to the apparent halt in the sun's movement before it reverses direction
, meaning ' ', referring to the apparent halt in the sun's movement before it reverses direction The June solstice marks the start of astronomical winter, though meteorological winter begins on 1 June Warm up with seasonal food : Winter solstice is a great time to cook hearty stews and enjoy hot beverages
: Winter solstice is a great time to cook hearty stews and enjoy hot beverages Reflect or set intentions : Many cultures treat the solstice as a time for introspection , planning, or renewal
: Many cultures treat the solstice as a time for , planning, or renewal Enjoy the stars: With longer nights and less cloud cover, it's an ideal time for observing constellations and planets
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