Winter solstice 2024: when the longest night of the year will be and what it means

0

The winter solstice is a unique astronomical phenomenon that marks the shortest day and longest night of the year. It is on this day that the Earth will reach the point in its orbit when the Northern Hemisphere is maximally deflected from the Sun.

The winter solstice is the beginning of astronomical winter and a symbol of the rebirth of light, because after this day the duration of daylight hours will begin to increase. In 2024, the winter solstice in Ukraine will occur on December 21.

What is the winter solstice

Winter solstice or Solaris is the moment when the sun passes through the lowest point of the celestial sphere relative to the equator. This means that the sun's rays fall on the Earth at the smallest angle, which reduces the duration of daylight to a minimum. In Ukraine, this day is characterized by the fact that the Sun appears above the horizon for only a few hours, and then quickly sets.

Traditions and meaning of the winter solstice

For many peoples, the winter solstice had a deep symbolic meaning. It is a holiday of the rebirth of the sun, the victory of light over darkness. Our ancestors associated this day with hopes for a new beginning, the renewal of nature and life cycles. Among pre-Christian Slavs, it was the time of celebrating Kolyada – a holiday that symbolized the birth of a new sun.

How the winter solstice affects humans

The change in the length of daylight hours has a significant impact on human biological rhythms. In winter, when darkness prevails, many people experience a decline in energy, fatigue, or even seasonal depression. However, the winter solstice also gives hope that daylight hours will begin to increase, and with it more vital energy will return.

The winter solstice period has always been interesting for astronomers. At this time, many astronomical events occur that can be observed in the sky, including:

• A large number of stars in the dark sky.
• The opportunity to see meteor showers, which are active in December.
• Visualization of planets that can be observed on clear nights during this period.

So, the winter solstice of 2024, which falls on December 21, marks an important astronomical and cultural moment. It is not only the beginning of winter, but also a symbol of rebirth and hope for the return of light. So it is a good time for spiritual renewal and preparation for new beginnings.