As a field expert in climatology and meteorology, I specialize in the study of weather patterns and the changes in climate over time. My expertise allows me to provide insights into the seasonal variations that our planet experiences. The Earth's axial tilt and its orbit around the Sun are the primary factors that determine the seasons we experience.

The seasons are a result of the Earth's axial tilt of approximately 23.5 degrees relative to its orbit around the Sun. This tilt causes different parts of the Earth to receive varying amounts of sunlight throughout the year. The beginning of each season is marked by an astronomical event:

- Spring Equinox: This marks the beginning of spring in the Northern Hemisphere. On this day, daylight and nighttime are approximately equal in length, and it usually occurs around March 20th or 21st.
- Summer Solstice: The start of summer is marked by the longest day of the year when the North Pole is tilted closest to the Sun. This typically happens around June 20th or 21st.
- Fall Equinox: As the Earth continues its orbit, the autumnal equinox signals the beginning of fall with equal day and night, occurring around September 22nd or 23rd.
- Winter Solstice: The shortest day of the year indicates the start of winter, with the North Pole tilted farthest from the Sun, usually on December 21st or 22nd.

It's important to note that the dates provided are approximate and can vary slightly from year to year due to the precise alignment of the Earth's tilt and orbit. Additionally, the seasons in the Southern Hemisphere are opposite to those in the Northern Hemisphere.

Now, to answer the question of what season it is today, June 28th, we are in the midst of summer in the Northern Hemisphere. This is the season known for its long days, high temperatures, and increased solar radiation. It's a time when many people enjoy outdoor activities and vacations, taking advantage of the warm weather.

The summer season is characterized by the highest solar elevation at noon, which means the Sun appears higher in the sky compared to other times of the year. This results in more direct sunlight and consequently, higher temperatures. The intensity of sunlight also affects the behavior of plants and animals, with many species being most active during this time.

In the Southern Hemisphere, however, June 28th falls during the winter season. Here, the days are shorter, and the temperatures are cooler compared to the summer months. The winter season is marked by a decrease in solar elevation, leading to less direct sunlight and cooler temperatures.

Understanding the seasons is not only important for enjoying the weather but also for agricultural planning, energy consumption patterns, and even our daily routines and activities.

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When Do the Seasons of the Year Begin?Seasons of 2018:SPRING EQUINOXMarch 20, 12:15 P.M. EDTSUMMER SOLSTICEJune 21, 6:07 A.M. EDTFALL EQUINOXSeptember 22, 9:54 P.M. EDTWINTER SOLSTICEDecember 21, 5:23 P.M. ESTread more >>