The Earth's axial tilt, a result of a historical collision with another celestial body, leads to the seasonal variations we experience today. This tilt causes different parts of the globe to receive varying amounts of sunlight, creating seasons. During the summer solstice, the Northern Hemisphere enjoys the longest day, while the Southern Hemisphere experiences a winter solstice. The solstice date changes yearly due to the Gregorian calendar's discrepancy with the Earth's 365.25-day orbital period, necessitating leap years. Summer can begin astronomically at the solstice or meteorologically based on temperature patterns, which differ in timing.
Astronomers now think that our planet got hit by another world, very early in the history of the solar system, and like many accident victims, it couldn't straighten out again.
Due to this tilt, as Earth orbits the Sun, different parts of the globe receive varying amounts of sunlight throughout the year. This tilt is the reason for our seasons.
The Gregorian calendar has 365 days, but the Earth actually takes about 365.25 days to orbit the Sun. That extra quarter-day is why we have leap years.
Astronomical summer starts at the summer solstice and ends at the fall equinox - usually around Sept. 22 or 23. Astronomical seasons are based on the position of the Earth in relation to the sun.
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