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General · Funchal · 3 October 2026

Solstice and Equinox: Understanding the Differences and Seasonal Impact

Solstices and equinoxes mark seasonal changes, with solstices defining longer or shorter days and equinoxes equalizing day and night length.

Solstice and Equinox: Understanding the Differences and Seasonal Impact

Solstices and equinoxes are astronomical phenomena that signal the start of new seasons. Both occur twice a year but differ in Earth's positioning relative to the Sun.

A solstice happens when the Sun is closest to one hemisphere, leading to longer days in one part of the world and longer nights in another. The summer solstice (with longer days) and winter solstice (with longer nights) occur at these times.

An equinox occurs when the Sun is closest to the Equator, distributing light and heat similarly across both hemispheres. This results in equal day and night durations, marking the beginning of spring and autumn.

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