Friday 21 June 2013

SOLSTICE SUNSET

Today in Melbourne, we experienced the Winter Solstice. The sun set at 5:08 pm and it was when the Sun reached the northernmost declination in its yearly journey through the Earth's sky. A June solstice marks the astronomical beginning of summer in the Northern hemisphere and winter in the Southern. It also brought us the South's shortest day, that is the shortest period between sunrise and sunset. It is also the official beginning of Winter in the Souther Hemisphere.

We went on top of the hill at All Nations Park in Northcote to enjoy the sunset, which was quite spectacular. The evening was quite cold though, the temperature about 5˚C. Worldwide, interpretation of the Solstices has varied from culture to culture, but many cultures have held a recognition of rebirth, involving holidays, festivals, gatherings, rituals or other celebrations around this time.

This post is part of the Skywatch Friday meme.





3 comments:

  1. Fine solstice images, Nick!

    «Louis», very belatedly thanks you for your contribution to the last Sunday Bridges. He very much appreciates your participation and regrets that his weekend work schedule often prevents him from acknowledging your contributions in a more timely manner.

    ReplyDelete

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