The Earth's orbit around the Sun is an ellipse, and the closest point in this orbit is called perihelion. Perihelion usually occurs around January 3rd or 4th.
This point in Earth’s orbit is called . Although it might seem surprising (since it’s winter in the Northern Hemisphere), the closeness to the Sun is less important for seasons than the tilt of Earth’s axis . During perihelion, the Northern Hemisphere is tilted away from the Sun, receiving sunlight at a lower angle and for fewer hours — hence the colder weather. when is the northern hemisphere closest to the sun
In 2026, Earth reaches perihelion on January 3rd at approximately 17:15 UTC (12:15 p.m. ET). The Earth's orbit around the Sun is an
It's essential to note that although the Northern Hemisphere is closer to the Sun during perihelion, it experiences winter due to its tilt away from the Sun. The tilt of the Earth's axis, rather than its distance from the Sun, determines the seasons. Although it might seem surprising (since it’s winter