The December solstice is on December 21, 2025. In Sharjah, sunrise is at 7:03 AM and sunset at 5:53 PM. In New York, sunrise is at 7:18 AM and sunset at 4:24 PM. Daylight duration is shorter this month. For specific dates and detailed times, check a local sunrise-sunset calendar.
In December, days are shorter, particularly in the Northern Hemisphere. As winter approaches, daylight decreases. For instance, in many northern cities, sunrise may occur around 7:30 AM, while sunset can happen as early as 4:00 PM. Conversely, in southern locations, daylight hours may be slightly longer.
This daily calendar guide allows you to track these times easily. Each day provides a unique perspective of light and dark, affecting everything from daily routines to mood. Understanding the pattern of sunrise and sunset can also enhance your awareness of seasonal changes.
As December progresses, the changes in daylight can motivate new habits or hobbies. Whether it’s capturing the beauty of a winter sunrise or planning an evening gathering as the sun sets, awareness of these times becomes essential. The next section will delve into specific sunrise and sunset times for major cities, enabling more precise planning for your December activities.
What Are the Sunrise and Sunset Times for December in My Location?
The sunrise and sunset times for December in your location vary based on geographic factors such as latitude and longitude. To find accurate times, refer to local weather services or online astronomical platforms.
- Geographic Influence:
- Local Climate Factors:
- Historical Data and Trends:
- Importance of Accurate Timing:
- Variations during the Month:
The following points highlight relevant factors affecting sunrise and sunset times in December.
- Geographic Influence: Geographic factors include your specific latitude and longitude, which directly affect the angle of the sun.
- Local Climate Factors: These include seasonal weather patterns, atmospheric conditions, and potential obstructions such as mountains or buildings.
- Historical Data and Trends: Historical records may show trends in daylight duration over the years.
- Importance of Accurate Timing: Accurate sunrise and sunset times help in planning activities and understanding seasonal changes.
- Variations during the Month: Times fluctuate throughout December, with earlier sunsets and later sunrises.
Geographic Influence: Geographic influence significantly affects sunrise and sunset times in December. Your latitude determines the angle of the sun and consequently the daylight hours. For example, locations closer to the poles experience more pronounced variations in daylight throughout the year. In contrast, regions near the equator have relatively consistent sunrise and sunset times year-round.
Local Climate Factors: Local climate factors play a crucial role. For instance, persistent cloud cover, fog, or snow can obscure the sun and influence perceived daylight length. Buildings or natural landscapes can also obstruct views of the horizon, affecting how we perceive sunrise and sunset times.
Historical Data and Trends: Historical data and trends provide insights into how daylight hours have changed over the years. Analyzing historical sunrise and sunset records can help in understanding the effects of climate change on daylight duration in a specific area.
Importance of Accurate Timing: The importance of accurate timing cannot be understated. Knowing precise sunrise and sunset times is vital for various activities, such as farming, fishing, and recreational planning. Moreover, accurate timing aids in the study of wildlife behaviors that are closely linked to daylight patterns.
Variations during the Month: Variations during the month further illustrate how sunrise and sunset times change. In December, sunset times generally start to get earlier, while sunrise times may become later as the month progresses. This phenomenon occurs due to the tilt of the Earth’s axis and its orbit around the sun.
Consider checking local resources or smartphone apps for precise timings that apply specifically to your location in December.
How Do December Sunrise and Sunset Times Differ Based on Geography?
December sunrise and sunset times vary significantly based on geographical location due to the tilt of the Earth’s axis and its orbit around the sun. This variation leads to shorter daylight hours in the Northern Hemisphere and longer daylight hours in the Southern Hemisphere.
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Latitude affects sunlight exposure: Locations closer to the poles experience more drastic variations in daylight. For example, places like Tromsø, Norway (69.6° N) experience polar night, where the sun does not rise at all for several weeks in December. In contrast, Quito, Ecuador (0.23° S) has very little variation in day length throughout the year, maintaining approximately 12 hours of sunlight daily.
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The Earth’s axial tilt causes seasonal changes: The tilt of the Earth’s axis (approximately 23.5 degrees) means that during December, the Northern Hemisphere is tilted away from the sun, resulting in shorter days. Conversely, the Southern Hemisphere, tilted towards the sun, enjoys longer days.
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Elevation and local topography play a role: Higher elevations can lead to variations in sunrise and sunset times due to mountain ranges and valleys that can obstruct sunlight. For instance, cities at lower elevations near mountains might experience delayed sunrise compared to those in flat areas.
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Atmospheric conditions influence visibility: Atmospheric refraction changes the apparent position of the sun. This effect can cause sunrise and sunset times to appear earlier or later based on weather conditions like haze or moisture in the air.
Numerical data illustrate these changes: In New York City, the sunrise on December 21 is around 7:18 AM, and sunset is around 4:52 PM, resulting in about 9.5 hours of daylight. In contrast, Sydney sees a sunrise around 5:41 AM and a sunset at 8:05 PM on the same day, giving it approximately 14.5 hours of daylight.
Understanding these geographical influences helps in planning daily activities during December, ensuring the optimal use of available daylight in different regions.
What Is the Impact of Latitude on December Sunrise and Sunset Times?
Latitude impacts sunrise and sunset times in December. Specifically, latitude refers to the distance north or south of the equator, measured in degrees. Higher latitudes experience shorter daylight hours in winter months, while lower latitudes maintain relatively consistent daylight.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) states, “Sunrise and sunset times shift throughout the year based on the Earth’s tilt and its orbit around the Sun.” This foundation is crucial for understanding the variation in daylight across different latitudes.
Higher latitudes face significant variations in sunrise and sunset times in December. In locations such as Norway or Canada, the sun rises late and sets early, resulting in scant daylight. Conversely, equatorial regions, like Ecuador, see minimal changes in day length throughout the year.
Additional research by the U.S. Naval Observatory indicates that during December, cities at 60 degrees north latitude may experience sunrise as late as 10 AM and sunset around 3 PM. This phenomenon is mainly due to the Earth’s axial tilt.
Contributing factors include Earth’s axial tilt of about 23.5 degrees and its elliptical orbit around the sun. These create varying angles of sunlight received at different latitudes throughout the year.
Data from the World Meteorological Organization shows that areas near the poles can have less than 6 hours of daylight in December, while regions near the equator enjoy approximately 12 hours consistently.
Shorter days affect various societal functions such as work hours, mood, and energy consumption. Increased reliance on artificial light leads to higher energy costs.
Health impacts include changes in sleep patterns and seasonal affective disorder, which can hinder productivity and social interaction. Economically, businesses may face reduced operating hours.
Examples include Alaska, where the decrease in daylight significantly affects local industries such as tourism and fisheries. In contrast, vibrant nightlife thrives in places like Ecuador due to consistent daylight.
To address these issues, the National Sleep Foundation recommends optimizing indoor lighting and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule. Cities can also improve public lighting to counter darkness during shorter days.
Implementing solar energy solutions and smart city planning can mitigate the impact of reduced daylight hours. Utilizing daylight sensors can enhance energy efficiency during winter months, promoting sustainability.
How Does Longitude Affect Sunrise and Sunset Times in December?
Longitude directly affects sunrise and sunset times in December. The Earth is divided into 360 degrees of longitude, with each degree representing a specific location east or west. As the Earth rotates on its axis from west to east, locations experience sunrise and sunset at different times.
When a location is further east, it experiences sunrise earlier compared to a location further west. Conversely, a western location sees sunset later than its eastern counterpart. This difference occurs because the Earth rotates about 15 degrees of longitude every hour.
In December, the tilt of the Earth’s axis also influences sunrise and sunset times. During this month, northern hemisphere locations are tilted away from the Sun, leading to shorter daylight hours. Thus, longitude plays a crucial role in determining the exact time of sunrise and sunset for any given location.
To summarize, factors such as Earth’s rotation and its axial tilt work together. Longitude affects the timing of sunrise and sunset, making these times different based on east-west positioning. Therefore, when considering sunrise and sunset times in December, both longitude and seasonal changes must be taken into account.
Why Do Time Zones Matter for December Sunrise and Sunset Times?
Time zones matter for December sunrise and sunset times because they determine the local solar time based on the Earth’s rotation. Each time zone accounts for a specific longitudinal section of the Earth, affecting when the sun appears at different locations.
According to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), time zones are defined by the difference in hours from Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). This system facilitates the synchronization of time across the globe, aiding in day-to-day activities.
The primary reasons time zones impact sunrise and sunset times include the Earth’s axial tilt, its rotation, and the division of the world into time zones. In December, the Northern Hemisphere experiences winter; thus, the sun rises later and sets earlier. The Earth’s tilt, at an angle of approximately 23.5 degrees, results in varying day lengths throughout the year. As the planet rotates, local solar time can vary significantly by time zone.
Technical terms like “solar time” refer to the time based on the position of the sun in the sky. It differs from standard time, which is regulated by man-made time zones. Additionally, the term “longitude” measures the Earth’s surface east or west of the Prime Meridian. Each time zone generally spans 15 degrees of longitude, corresponding to one hour of time difference.
Several mechanisms contribute to the differences in sunrise and sunset times. The tilt of the Earth’s axis leads to the seasonal changes we experience. In December, the Northern Hemisphere is tilted away from the sun, shortening daylight hours. These factors, along with local geographic features like mountains and valleys, can affect the exact timing of sunrise and sunset.
Specific conditions influencing these times include the observer’s latitude and local standard time. For example, cities closer to the poles experience more pronounced changes in daylight during winter. In contrast, equatorial regions maintain relatively consistent day lengths year-round. If you live in New York City, for instance, sunrise in December typically occurs around 7:18 AM while it can be as late as 8:00 AM in more westerly time zones like Chicago due to their geographical positions.
What Are the Benefits of Knowing My Location’s December Sunrise and Sunset Times?
Knowing your location’s December sunrise and sunset times offers several benefits. These benefits include aiding daily planning, enhancing mental well-being, supporting outdoor activities, informing agricultural practices, and adjusting light exposure.
- Aiding Daily Planning
- Enhancing Mental Well-Being
- Supporting Outdoor Activities
- Informing Agricultural Practices
- Adjusting Light Exposure
Understanding the benefits of knowing sunrise and sunset times helps you make the most of your day and foster a healthier lifestyle.
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Aiding Daily Planning:
Aiding daily planning involves helping individuals manage their schedules effectively. Knowing sunrise and sunset times allows you to allocate time for various activities such as commuting, exercise, and leisure. For instance, if the sun sets early, you can plan to finish outdoor activities before dark. A study by the National Institute of Health (NIH) shows that light exposure is crucial for regulating daily routines and productivity. -
Enhancing Mental Well-Being:
Enhancing mental well-being occurs by aligning activities with natural light cycles. Exposure to natural light is linked to improved mood and energy levels. According to the Seasonal Affective Disorder Association, people with access to sufficient light during winter months experience fewer depressive symptoms. Knowing when the sun rises and sets can help individuals spend more time outdoors, thus boosting mental health. -
Supporting Outdoor Activities:
Supporting outdoor activities is about optimizing the timing of recreational investments. Sunrise and sunset times inform individuals when it is best to engage in activities like hiking, biking, or photography. Photographers, for example, often aim for the ‘golden hour’ right after sunrise or before sunset to capture the best natural light. According to Outdoor Industry Association, this planning enables more enjoyable and fulfilling outdoor experiences. -
Informing Agricultural Practices:
Informing agricultural practices involves scheduling planting and harvesting activities effectively. Farmers rely on sunlight duration to optimize plant growth. For example, understanding when the longest day occurs helps farmers anticipate crop yield patterns. According to the USDA, knowledge of daylight hours is essential for maximizing agricultural efficiency and productivity. -
Adjusting Light Exposure:
Adjusting light exposure focuses on maintaining a healthy sleep cycle. The body’s internal clock, or circadian rhythm, responds to light and darkness, affecting sleep quality. By knowing the sunset time, individuals can manage indoor lighting to mimic natural light, which is vital for regulating sleep patterns. Studies by the Sleep Foundation highlight that adjusting light exposure leads to better sleep quality and overall health.
How Can I Accurately Calculate December Sunrise and Sunset Times for My Area?
To accurately calculate December sunrise and sunset times for your area, you can use online tools, local weather services, or astronomical formulas.
First, online tools are convenient and user-friendly. Websites like timeanddate.com or almanac.com allow you to enter your location and provide accurate sunrise and sunset times for any day in December. These platforms use a combination of geographical data and astronomical calculations.
Second, local weather services often publish daily sunrise and sunset times. Your local news station or meteorological office provides this information in their weather forecasts. This data is typically updated regularly and reflects local conditions.
Third, if you prefer manual calculation, you can use the formula related to the solar declination and your geographic coordinates. The solar declination changes throughout the year, impacting sunrise and sunset times. The formula involves your latitude, the day of the year, and solar angles. For December, the solar declination angle ranges from -23.44° to 0°.
Lastly, mobile apps are another handy option. Applications like Sun Surveyor or PhotoPills can give you precise data on sunrise and sunset for your specific location and date. These apps use GPS technology, which ensures accuracy.
By using these methods, you can obtain accurate sunrise and sunset times for your area throughout December.
What Tools or Resources Are Available to Find December Sunrise and Sunset Times?
To find December sunrise and sunset times, you can use various tools and resources including websites, apps, and local weather stations.
- Websites (e.g., Timeanddate.com, SunriseSunset.com)
- Smartphone Apps (e.g., Weather apps, Astronomy apps)
- Local Weather Stations
- National Meteorological Services (e.g., NOAA in the U.S.)
- Astronomical Calendars
- Online Forums and Communities (e.g., astronomy clubs)
- Almanacs (e.g., The Old Farmer’s Almanac)
These resources offer different features and data to suit various user preferences and needs.
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Websites: Websites such as Timeanddate.com and SunriseSunset.com provide comprehensive data on sunrise and sunset times for any location. These sites offer interactive maps and detailed information on various celestial events, making them user-friendly for all types of users.
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Smartphone Apps: Smartphone applications, including Weather apps and Astronomy apps, offer convenient access to daily sunrise and sunset times. These apps often send notifications about significant events such as solstices and equinoxes. They display real-time data based on your current location.
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Local Weather Stations: Local weather stations collect and report information related to sunrise and sunset times. This data is usually accurate and reflects any changes due to local topography and atmosphere.
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National Meteorological Services: National services, like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in the U.S., provide detailed forecasts and data about sunrise and sunset times. Their platforms are reliable and frequently updated.
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Astronomical Calendars: Astronomical calendars provide yearly data on celestial events, including sunrise and sunset times. They cater to enthusiasts and researchers seeking long-term information.
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Online Forums and Communities: Online forums and communities, like astronomy clubs, allow users to discuss and share sunrise and sunset information. They offer insights and user experiences.
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Almanacs: Publications like The Old Farmer’s Almanac provide yearly summaries, including sunrise and sunset times for specific locations. They combine historical data with predictions to suit both practical and academic needs.
These resources cater to a variety of preferences, ensuring that anyone can find the sunrise and sunset times they need for December.
Why Is Tracking December Sunrise and Sunset Times Important for Outdoor Activities?
Tracking December sunrise and sunset times is important for outdoor activities because it helps individuals plan their schedules and ensure safety. Knowing these times allows for better utilization of daylight and minimizes risks associated with reduced visibility.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) defines sunrise as the moment the upper limb of the sun appears on the horizon, and sunset as when the last light from the sun disappears below the horizon. Accurate tracking of these times is essential for various outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and photography.
Understanding the importance of tracking sunrise and sunset times involves several key factors. Shorter days in December, due to the tilt of the Earth’s axis, result in less available daylight. As daylight decreases, outdoor enthusiasts need to adjust their plans to align with the available light. This adjustment is critical for planning activities, especially those that require visibility for safety.
Technical terms such as “solar noon” may arise in this context. Solar noon is when the sun reaches its highest point in the sky. Knowing the timing of sunrise and sunset helps individuals calculate how much daylight they have before solar noon.
In detail, the Earth rotates on its axis, causing the sun to appear to rise and set. As the seasons change, the sun’s path across the sky shifts. During December, in the Northern Hemisphere, the sun travels a lower arc, leading to shorter days. For example, in many locations, the sun may rise as late as 7:30 AM and set by 4:00 PM, significantly limiting available daylight hours for outdoor activities.
Specific conditions that contribute to the importance of tracking these times include weather factors and personal safety. For example, if a hiker is aware that sunset occurs at 4:30 PM, they can plan to return to their vehicle or campsite by that time, thereby avoiding the dangers of hiking in darkness. On the other hand, photographers can capitalize on the golden hour, the period shortly after sunrise or before sunset when natural light is ideal for taking pictures. Understanding these timeframes empowers individuals to make informed decisions and enjoy their outdoor activities to the fullest.
How Do December Sunrise and Sunset Times Compare to Other Months?
December generally has the shortest daylight hours of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. The sunrise times are typically later, and sunset times are earlier compared to other months, particularly in summer. Below is a comparison of sunrise and sunset times for December in relation to other months.
| Month | Average Sunrise Time | Average Sunset Time |
|---|---|---|
| December | 7:30 AM | 4:00 PM |
| January | 7:40 AM | 4:10 PM |
| February | 7:15 AM | 5:30 PM |
| March | 6:45 AM | 6:00 PM |
| April | 6:15 AM | 6:30 PM |
| May | 5:45 AM | 7:30 PM |
| June | 5:30 AM | 8:30 PM |
| July | 5:45 AM | 8:15 PM |
| August | 6:00 AM | 7:30 PM |
| September | 6:30 AM | 7:00 PM |
| October | 6:45 AM | 6:15 PM |
| November | 6:45 AM | 5:00 PM |