Earth’s Closest Approach to the Sun in 2025

On January 4, 2025, the National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (NARIT) shared a fascinating astronomical fact: Earth reaches its closest point to the Sun for the year, a phenomenon known as perihelion. At this position, the Earth is approximately 147 million kilometers (about 91 million miles) away from the Sun.

What Causes Perihelion?

Earth orbits the Sun in an elliptical path, with the Sun positioned slightly off-center. This results in two key points in Earth’s annual orbit:

• Perihelion: The point closest to the Sun, occurring in early January.
• Aphelion: The farthest point from the Sun, happening in early July.

Today, the Sun will rise at 6:42 AM and set at 6:03 PM. This timing aligns with Thailand’s winter season, often misunderstood as being linked to Earth’s distance from the Sun. However, the reality is the opposite: Thailand’s winter occurs when the Earth is closest to the Sun.

Seasons Explained

The misconception about Earth’s proximity to the Sun affecting seasons stems from a misunderstanding. Seasons are caused by the Earth’s axial tilt of 23.5 degrees. This tilt causes varying amounts of sunlight to reach different parts of the globe, resulting in changes in temperature and day length. For example:

• Winter: A region tilts away from the Sun, receiving less direct sunlight.
• Summer: A region tilts toward the Sun, receiving more direct sunlight.

In essence, Earth’s axial tilt, not its elliptical orbit, creates the seasons.

Key Takeaways for Stargazers and Science Enthusiasts

• This astronomical event provides an excellent opportunity for educators and enthusiasts to highlight the relationship between Earth’s orbit and seasonal changes.
• The alignment of perihelion with the winter season demonstrates how astronomical phenomena and Earth’s geography interact.

By weaving this astronomical wonder into conversations and educational efforts, we can deepen our appreciation of Earth’s relationship with the Sun. Whether you’re a science enthusiast or simply curious about the cosmos, understanding these natural cycles fosters a greater connection with our planet.