A split image comparing the Sun's apparent size at perihelion (closest to Earth) on January 4th, 147,095,271 km away, and aphelion (farthest from Earth) on July 4th, 152,091,74 km away. The difference in size demonstrates the effect of Earth's elliptical orbit, showcasing a ~3% change in the Sun's apparent diameter. The image highlights that while distance affects the Sun's apparent size, it doesn't affect the seasons.

Astronomy Picture from 03/07/2009

Perihelion and Aphelion

Source: https://apod.nasa.gov/apod/ap090703.html


#Aphelion2024 #SummerSolstice #EarthSunDistance #OrbitalMechanics #SpaceFacts #Astronomy #SolarSystem #Science #Cosmology #SunSize

A stunning 22-degree halo surrounds the sun, visible behind a silhouetted tree trunk. This optical phenomenon, caused by ice crystals in the atmosphere, was captured near Heroldstatt, Germany, on a day when Earth reached perihelion—its closest point to the Sun in its orbit. The image beautifully contrasts the celestial event with the earthly landscape.

Astronomy Picture from 13/01/2024

Circling the Sun

Source: https://apod.nasa.gov/apod/ap240113.html


#SunHalo #22DegreeHalo #AtmosphericOptics #Perihelion #EarthSunDistance #WinterPhenomenon #IceCrystals #Germany #NaturePhotography #SpaceWeather #SkyPhenomena #AtmosphericScience #BeautifulSky