Episode guide
Winter Solstice: Why It Is Cold in Winter
The longest night of the year is a hinge: from here, the light comes back a little every day. This episode explains the tilt that makes the seasons.
The science, gently
- Seasons come from Earth's tilt, not from its distance to the sun.
- On the winter solstice, your half of the world leans farthest from the sun, making the shortest day.
- The very next day, daylight begins growing again, minute by minute.
Wonder together
- What would you do with the longest night, if you could plan it?
- Why do you think so many holidays gather around the darkest week?
- What is good about the dark?
Tonight's calm-down
Tonight, the dark is not late, it is generous: extra hours of quiet, on purpose. Take your share. The light is already on its way back, and it knows the address.