Zero Shadow Day: Bangalore to Witness Astronomical Phenomenon on August 18
On August 18, 2023, Bengaluru is gearing up to witness a fascinating astronomical event known as Zero Shadow Day for the second time this year. At approximately 12:24 pm, the city will experience a unique celestial occurrence where the Sun will be positioned directly overhead. This event will lead to a remarkable phenomenon where vertical objects such as poles, sticks, and even people will not cast any shadows on the ground during this specific time frame.
What is Zero Shadow Day?
Zero Shadow Day is a rare and captivating celestial event that occurs due to the Earth’s tilt and its orbit around the Sun. During this phenomenon, shadows either become completely vertical or practically disappear. When the Sun is directly at the zenith position, it does not cast a shadow on objects. This event is experienced by people living between latitudes of +23.5 and -23.5 degrees twice a year – once during Uttarayan and once during Dakshinayan.
Scientific Explanation and Observation
The Sun’s path across the sky changes over the course of a year. When the Sun reaches the zenith, which is the highest point in the sky directly above an observer, shadows align perfectly with the ground beneath. This alignment occurs only twice a year on Zero Shadow Days.
To observe this phenomenon, individuals can witness the progressive disappearance of their shadow as the expected solar noon approaches. Objects like poles will appear to be suspended in midair without casting any shadows. By placing objects like water bottles, torches, or rods in the sunlight, one can observe how their shadow lengths change as the day progresses. Ultimately, the shadows will vanish completely for a brief period around 12:24 pm, marking the onset of Zero Shadow time.
On April 18 of this year, Bengaluru previously experienced Zero Shadow Day around 12:17 pm, and this event also occurred in Hyderabad on May 9 and August 3 at 12:23 pm.
This rare celestial event provides an intriguing opportunity for people to observe and appreciate the intricate interactions between Earth, the Sun, and shadows.
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