Celebrate the return of the sun on Thursday!

Solstice Day will bring the shortest daytime hours and the longest nighttime hours of the year in the Northern Hemisphere.

The sun descends to its southernmost point in the sky and its noontime elevation will appear to hold still for several days. This is the essence of the word solstice, which translates as “sun” and “to be still.” Many cultures rejoice at the sun’s northward “rebirth” as each following day brings longer sunlit hours. Astronomers mark this moment as the astronomical start of winter.

Returning with the light is a familiar giant of a figure. We have only to look for three bright stars in a row that mark his belt to recognize massive Orion, our winter companion. Less easy to observe, and concealed within the Hunter’s sword, is a ghostlike figure. The Running Man Nebula, who strides close by the famous stellar nursery, the great Orion Nebula.

First discovered by astronomer William Herschel, of planet Uranus discovery fame, The Running Man is a reflection Nebula that looks like a figure with arms outstretched in motion. Best viewed through binoculars or telescope, it’s a popular apparition for astro-photographers.

While stellar specters grace the evenings, check out your colossal outline at noon Thursday. The sun’s lowest arc will stretch your shadow to the longest of the year.

— Julie Silverman, Carnegie Science Center

First Published: December 19, 2023, 10:30 a.m.