Earth does not orbit the Sun in a perfect circle; instead, it travels along an , similar to a slightly stretched oval. This means there is a specific point each year when the distance between Earth and the Sun is at its absolute minimum.
In contrast, the Northern Hemisphere is farthest from the Sun (aphelion) in early July. when is the northern hemisphere closest to the sun
Perihelion typically occurs about two weeks after the December Winter Solstice, usually between January 2nd and January 5th . Earth does not orbit the Sun in a
The Northern Hemisphere is closest to the sun in . This specific point in Earth's orbit is called perihelion . Perihelion typically occurs about two weeks after the
The Northern Hemisphere is closest to the Sun during , specifically around January 4–5 .
In 2026, Earth reaches perihelion on January 3rd at approximately 17:15 UTC (12:15 p.m. ET).
This phenomenon, known as , highlights one of the most common misconceptions about our planet's relationship with its star. The Moment of Closest Approach: Perihelion