Winter Solstice Science: A Unique Learning Experience

The University of Massachusetts Amherst is set to host a special event for the winter solstice. This event will take place at the Sunwheel on December 21. Two sessions are planned: one at sunrise and another at sunset. The goal is to help people understand the science behind the shortest day of the year. The Sunwheel is a special place. It is designed to align with the sun's movements. On the winter solstice, the sun rises and sets at its most southerly points. This aligns with specific stones in the Sunwheel. The astronomers will explain this alignment and answer questions about astronomy. Astronomer Stephen Schneider will lead the morning session. Grant Wilson will join the evening event. They will discuss the Earth's position relative to the sun and moon. They will also explain the design of the Sunwheel. A telescope will be set up in the morning to observe the moon, weather permitting.The winter solstice is a time of unique astronomical phenomena. For example, the earliest sunset occurs about two weeks before the solstice. The latest sunrise happens roughly two weeks after. The longest "solar day" of the year falls on December 22. The astronomers will explain these interesting facts. Visitors can see the sun rising and setting over the solstice stones from December 16 to December 26. During this period, the sun appears to rise and set at fixed points for over a week. The Sunwheel is located south of McGuirk Alumni Stadium. It is off Rocky Hill Road, about a quarter mile south of University Drive. Attendees should be prepared for cold weather and wet ground. The event is a great opportunity to learn about astronomy. It is also a chance to experience the beauty of the winter solstice.