podcastsinenglish Level 3.143 British icons: Stonehenge
Jun 21, 2018
Discover why Stonehenge becomes a mystical gathering place during the summer solstice. Learn about the Earth's tilt and how it affects day length and seasonal changes. Explore the ancient site's alignment with the sunrise and its significance to pagan celebrations. The discussion delves into the mysteries surrounding its construction and the colossal stones' origins. Enjoy personal anecdotes from visits, highlighting the awe-inspiring experience of this iconic monument.
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Why The Solstice Gives Longest Day
- The summer solstice gives the longest day in the Northern Hemisphere because the Earth tilts 23.5 degrees toward the sun.
- Seasons arise from that tilt, not from distance to the sun.
Weather Lags Solar Position
- Weather and the sun's position are related but different; hottest months lag the solstice due to weather systems.
- Meteorological patterns, not Earth's proximity to the sun, determine local temperatures.
Stonehenge's Solar Alignment
- Stonehenge aligns so the rising sun reaches its central altar only on the summer solstice.
- That solar alignment makes the site significant for seasonal rituals and observations.