The summer and winter solstices mark significant astronomical events that affect both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. In 2024, the summer solstice will occur on June 20th, marking the astronomical beginning of summer in the Northern Hemisphere. The sun will reach its highest altitude at midday, a phenomenon explained by Dr. Björn Voss, director of the Hamburg Planetarium.
In the Northern Hemisphere, the summer solstice results in the longest day of the year. Dr. Voss explains that after this point, daylight will gradually decrease, although the hours of light will still exceed the hours of darkness until the beginning of autumn in September. A special phenomenon called midnight twilight can be observed in northern Germany, where it never gets completely dark.
On the same date, the Southern Hemisphere will experience the winter solstice, marking the longest night and the shortest day of the year. Astrologer Clara Gualano describes this as a time of deep introspection and spiritual practices. Various cultures, such as the Incas and Celts, have historically celebrated this event with rituals that honor the sun and the return of light.
The winter solstice is also a time for rituals and spiritual practices. Clara Gualano and Flavia Carrión suggest activities such as burning a special log, meditating, and making offerings to the sun. These rituals help individuals connect with the cosmic energies and reflect on their personal growth and future aspirations.
- In the Northern Hemisphere, the summer solstice occurs when the sun reaches its highest point above the celestial equator. This event is marked by the longest day of the year, with daylight gradually decreasing afterwards.
- In northern Germany, a phenomenon called midnight twilight occurs during the summer solstice, where it never gets completely dark. This is due to the sun not sinking far enough below the horizon.
- In the Southern Hemisphere, the winter solstice is a time for deep introspection and spiritual practices. Astrologer Clara Gualano explains that this period is marked by the longest night and the shortest day of the year.
- Historical rituals associated with the winter solstice include the Inti Raymi festival of the Inca Empire and the Celtic festival of Yule. These celebrations often involve bonfires, songs, and prayers to honor the sun and the return of light.
