In fact, Chicago experienced its earliest sunrise earlier in June, while the year’s latest sunset still lies ahead.
Furthermore, the Sun’s setting around the solstice tends to be a more gradual process, leisurely slipping below the horizon.
The Astronomical Calendar
The Gregorian calendar and Earth’s astronomical movements don’t exactly match, resulting in the solstice typically falling between June 20-22.
Despite the Summer Solstice 2023 signaling the Northern Hemisphere’s peak sunlight exposure, the region’s hottest day usually doesn’t occur until mid-to-late July.
This discrepancy is attributed to the slower thermal response of oceans compared to land, leading to continued warming even after the solstice, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Unveiling Celestial Events Post the Summer Solstice 2023
With the arrival of the Summer Solstice 2023, NASA scientists have forecasted an active period of solar phenomena.
This includes a duo of solar eclipses visible, at least partially, from the Midwest. The first is anticipated on October 14, 2023, with a total eclipse observable over parts of the southwestern United States.
