The summer solstice, marking the longest day of the year, will occur in Novosibirsk on June 21st.

The Bolshoi Novosibirsk Planetarium reports that the solstice is due to the Earth’s tilt and uneven illumination as it revolves around the sun. During the Northern Hemisphere’s summer, this tilt results in more sunlight, making it the longest day. Conversely, the Southern Hemisphere experiences its longest night. Astronomically, this event signifies the start of summer.

Andrei Nikiforov from the Planetarium explained that the sun will remain at its peak for several days before gradually descending towards the autumnal equinox. This year, the summer solstice is precisely timed for June 21st at 05:42, when the sun reaches its highest point above the horizon.

For thousands of years, civilizations have recognized the summer solstice as a special day, often celebrating it with various traditions and customs.