Discover the quirks of Leap Day and why it exists, with insights into the origins of Earth and Moon. Dive into the intricate connections between Earth's rotation, the Moon's orbit, and eclipse occurrences. Uncover leap year traditions, superstitions, and historical events tied to this unique day.
Leap years adjust the calendar for Earth's orbit around the sun, preventing seasonal shifts.
Traditions and perspectives surrounding Leap Day showcase cultural diversity and unique opportunities.
Deep dives
Understanding Leap Years and Their Significance
Leap years, like 2024, involve adding an extra day at the end of February every four years to make up for Earth's actual orbit time around the sun, which is 365 days, 5 hours, 48 minutes, and 56 seconds. Without a leap year, seasons would shift over time. The Earth's rotation speed and the significance of leap years in adjusting the calendar are emphasized.
Insight into Earth's Formation and the Impact on Time Measurement
The Earth's orbit around the sun and the length of a day are determined by the Earth's formation from particles that coalesced into the Earth and Moon. An early giant impact event tilted the Earth's axis and set it spinning, creating the Moon. Over time, the Moon moving away from Earth leads to longer days, affecting the Earth's rotation and causing significant changes in celestial events.
Fun Facts and Traditions Surrounding Leap Day
February 29th, known as Leap Day, holds traditions where women propose to men in some cultures. While some consider the day unlucky, others celebrate it as a unique opportunity. Various traditions, like Illinois towns not recognizing the day as legally binding, add intriguing perspectives to the cultural significance of Leap Day.
Did you know a person born on February 29 is called a "leapling"? This special episode is hopping with Leap Day trivia! Like, why do we need an extra day every four years anyway? And will I get paid for working an extra day in February? It's the lowdown on Leap Day in an episode that's as off-kilter as the earth's axis.
Guest:
Bob Craddock, Geologist at the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum's Center for Earth and Planetary Studies
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode