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11mo ago

Celebrating the Summer Solstice: Traditions and Scientific Marvels

From ancient rituals to astronomical observations, the longest day of the year holds rich cultural and scientific significance.

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Revelers celebrate the summer solstice as the sun rises at Stonehenge, near Amesbury, in Wiltshire, southern England on June 21, 2023. This year, the solstice is on June 20, 2024, and is the earliest in over 200 years.
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Overview

  • The summer solstice in 2024 occurs on June 20 at 4:50 PM EDT, marking the start of summer in the Northern Hemisphere.
  • Historically, solstices have been celebrated with various rituals, including bonfires and communal gatherings.
  • In tropical regions, 'zero shadow' days occur around the solstice, where objects cast minimal shadows at solar noon.
  • Ancient astronomer Eratosthenes used solstice shadows to estimate Earth's circumference over 2,000 years ago.
  • Modern celebrations include outdoor activities, feasts, and sun salutations in honor of the sun's peak.