The Day the Sun Stood Still: Summer Solstice 2016
It’s happening up in the sky. A yearly phenomenon of epic proportions that makes the sun itself stand still. 2016’s summer solstice will occur in the United States on Monday June 20th at exactly 6:34 p.m. EST.
The solstice is not a modern observation. For millions of years ancient civilizations have watched in awe the path the sun takes over the earth. It was the center of many rituals and shrines of these cultures as they willed themselves to understand the unfathomable glowing star in the sky. Some scholars believe that structures such as Stonehenge and the ancient pyramids were built in worship or for ceremony centering on the sun. The sun was a crucial part of ancient society and culture, as every aspect was determinate on its status.
According to a study done by NASA involving the relationship between civilizations and the sun, we may never know for certain just how these solar-inspired structures were used…. But we can at least admire their creators for what must have been a sophisticated understanding of the Sun’s movements. We can also appreciate their cleverness in applying this knowledge to enhance their own survival in a largely unforgiving environment. Today, the movement of the sun is rather less ceremonial or cultural. Of course, the sun is still a vital part of life, but today’s technological world operates day-and-night.
The Summer Solstice is one of the many intricacies about the sun that fascinates humankind. The day of the summer solstice is actually the day of a double solstice. In both the northern and southern hemisphere the summer and winter solstices are occurring simultaneously. This means that the earth experiences both the longest and shortest day of the year at the same time. The solstice actually occurs when the sun reaches its northern most point on earth, as seen from the earth. As that moment approaches, the sun reaches its zenith and does not move to the north or the south, but instead stands still at the Tropic of Cancer. Also, the solstice is not just a one day occurrence. Several happen throughout the year, but the summer solstice is unique in that it occurs worldwide over a three day period: people will be witnessing the solstice from June 20- June 22. The event of a solstice happening on the 22nd is rare, with the next set to occur in 2203.
Want to watch this event for yourself? There are several gatherings happening all over the world to mark the occasion. Santa Barbara is having a parade in honor of the solstice, and people even gather at Stonehenge to watch the magnificent sight. Closer to home? Gather the family, track the sun, and watch it together outside. It might become an educational opportunity for kids right in the middle of their summer break. It could also just be a bonding experience to share with friends and neighbors. The solstice is an ancient reminder to take a moment and realize the beauty, magnificence, and complexity of the world revolving around us.
