Context:
The vernal equinox is observed on March 21st 2023.
Relevance:
GS I: Geography
Dimensions of the Article:
- About Equinox
- Significance of Equinox
About Equinox
- The equinox occurs twice a year, around 21st March and 23rd September, when the sun is directly above the equator.
- During the equinox, both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres experience equal day and night time.
- In the Northern Hemisphere, the vernal equinox (spring equinox) occurs around 20th or 21st March, while in the Southern Hemisphere, it takes place on 22nd or 23rd September.
- Conversely, during the autumn season in the Northern Hemisphere on 23rd September (autumnal equinox), it is springtime in the Southern Hemisphere, and on 21st March, it is the opposite.
Significance of Equinox
- During the equinox, the Sun is directly above the equator, and both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres receive almost equal amounts of sunlight.
- The spring equinox, which occurs in March in the Northern Hemisphere, results in more hours of daylight with earlier sunrises and later sunsets as the northern hemisphere tilts closer to the Sun.
- In Hindu astrology, the vernal equinox is known as Vasant Vishuva or Vasant Sampat.
- The spring equinox brings earlier sunrises, later sunsets, and sprouting plants in the Northern Hemisphere.
- In the Southern Hemisphere, the autumnal equinox brings later sunrises, earlier sunsets, chillier winds, and dry and falling leaves.
- The equinox plays a significant role in astronomy, and it is observed as a significant event in various cultures and traditions around the world.
-Source: The Hindu
