What Is Solstice?
The longest and shortest days of the year, around June 21 and December 21, when the Sun is farthest north or south. In technical terms: The instant when the subsolar point reaches its maximum latitude, about 23.44 degrees N (near June 21) or 23.44 degrees S (near December 21), producing the maximum and minimum day length in each hemisphere.
Also called: Summer Solstice, Winter Solstice
Solstice In Plain English
The longest and shortest days of the year, around June 21 and December 21, when the Sun is farthest north or south.
The Technical Definition
The instant when the subsolar point reaches its maximum latitude, about 23.44 degrees N (near June 21) or 23.44 degrees S (near December 21), producing the maximum and minimum day length in each hemisphere.
Lessons That Use Solstice
- Why We Have Seasons Unit 2: Energy And The Sun
