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Why We Have Seasons

Earth’s axis stays tilted as our planet orbits the Sun. Explore how this changes day length and the height of the Sun throughout the year.

Things to try

  • Compare the June and December solstices in both hemispheres.
  • Change your latitude and compare daylight hours.
  • Try zero axial tilt, then restore it to see what creates seasons.

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Related lesson

Why Sunlight Rays Are Nearly Parallel

Sources, imagery credits and model assumptions are included in each simulation.