Earth is closest to the Sun today. And the phenomenon is called "earth at perihelion." One also acknowledges this celestial event as Perihelion Day. This year, Perihelion Day 2024 falls on January 3, Wednesday. Perihelion Day, a fascinating celestial event, marks the point in Earth's orbit when it comes closest to the Sun. This annual occurrence typically takes place in early January, and the term "perihelion" itself originates from the Greek words peri, meaning "near," and helios, signifying "sun." The phenomenon is a result of the elliptical shape of Earth's orbit, where it experiences variations in its distance from the Sun throughout the year.

Perihelion Day 2024 and Distance Between Earth and Sun

The date of Perihelion Day fluctuates annually but commonly falls between January 2 and 5. This year, Perihelion Day is on Wednesday, January 3, at 6:08 am. During this time, Earth is approximately 14,71,00,632 kilometres away from the Sun, about three per cent closer than its average distance of 150 million kilometres over the course of the entire orbit. While this might seem like a negligible difference, the impact on our planet is noteworthy. Perihelion Day 2023: Earth Reaches Closest to the Sun on January 4; Know More About the Celestial Phenomenon (View Tweet).

Earth is Closest to the Sun

The reduced distance leads to an increase in solar radiation received by Earth, contributing to the Southern Hemisphere's summer season. Conversely, in the Northern Hemisphere, it is winter during perihelion due to the tilt of the Earth's axis. However, the effect of perihelion on Earth's seasons is relatively minor compared to the axial tilt, which is the primary factor influencing the changing seasons. While Perihelion Day itself may not be directly observable to the naked eye, it serves as a reminder of the complex interplay of cosmic forces that shape our planet's journey through space. Solar Flares Hit Earth Today! Geomagnetic Storm From Sun To Impact Migratory Birds, Affect Radio Waves.

Live High-Definition Views from the International Space Station (Official NASA Stream)

When is Aphelion Day 2024?

Aphelion Day occurs annually when Earth reaches its farthest point from the Sun in its elliptical orbit. In 2024, Aphelion is set for July 5, at 1:06 am. In contrast to Perihelion, which influences the intensity of seasons, Aphelion contributes to the length of seasons. Despite being farther from the Sun, Aphelion coincides with summer in the Northern Hemisphere.

The heightened solar radiation during Perihelion – about seven per cent more intense than at Aphelion, the farthest point from the Sun – subtly impacts weather patterns and contributes to climatic variations. While these changes may not be overtly perceptible, they underscore the delicate natural mechanisms maintaining Earth's balance.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 03, 2024 01:05 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).