Bengaluru’s zero shadow day

Zero Shadow Day in Bengaluru Today: What It Is and Why It Happens

Bengaluru residents are in for a rare celestial treat today, as Zero Shadow Day is set to occur between 12:17 PM and 12:23 PM. This phenomenon will make shadows vanish completely in the city, a phenomenon that happens twice a year when the sun is directly overhead.

Zero Shadow Day occurs when the sun’s position is directly overhead, resulting in objects casting zero shadows at noon. This event is typically observed in regions near the equator when the sun’s angle is nearly perpendicular to the earth’s surface.

Zero Shadow Day happens twice a year for places between +23.5 and -23.5 degrees latitude. During this time, the sun is nearly overhead at noon but transits slightly lower in altitude, resulting in no shadows on the Earth.

The event is closely linked to Earth’s axial tilt and occurs in regions near the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn. It is a significant event for scientists and astronomers, aiding in the study of the sun’s movement and the Earth’s tilt and orbit.

In India, cities like Chennai, Mumbai, and Pune, located between the Tropic of Cancer and Capricorn, have a higher chance of experiencing Zero Shadow Day.

The phenomenon usually lasts for just a fraction of a second, but its effects can be observed for a couple of minutes. The Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) will organize special events at its Koramangala campus for the public to observe the phenomenon.

FAQs about Zero Shadow Day:

What is Zero Shadow Day?

Zero Shadow Day (ZSD) occurs twice a year in regions between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn, when the sun is directly overhead, causing objects to cast no shadows.

Why does Zero Shadow Day happen?

Earth’s tilt and the sun’s apparent movement throughout the year cause this phenomenon. Twice a year, the sun reaches a point directly overhead at specific latitudes, eliminating shadows for a brief period.

Where can you observe Zero Shadow Day?

Zero Shadow Day can be observed only in locations between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn.

When does Zero Shadow Day occur?

ZSD occurs twice a year, around the times of the summer and winter solstices, with specific dates varying slightly depending on the location.

How long does Zero Shadow Day last?

The period with no shadows is very brief, typically just a few minutes or even seconds, but the effect may be noticeable for a slightly longer duration.

Is there any significance to Zero Shadow Day?

Besides being a fascinating celestial event, Zero Shadow Day helps verify the sun’s position and calibrate astronomical instruments.

Are there any safety precautions for Zero Shadow Day?

While Zero Shadow Day itself doesn’t pose safety risks, looking directly at the sun can damage your eyes. So, avoid doing so during this event or at any other time.