Bengaluru To Witness 'Zero Shadow Day' On April 24

In Bengaluru, residents are preparing for a rare celestial event on Wednesday as their shadows will disappear momentarily during 'Zero Shadow Day.'

This unique astronomical occurrence is scheduled between 12:17 pm and 12:23 pm on April 24 and will be observed in places situated at the same latitudes as Bengaluru.

Bengaluru, located at a latitude of 13.0 degrees north, experiences this phenomenon twice a year, usually around April 24/25 and August 18. It typically coincides with the equinoxes in March and September each year.

WHAT IS ZERO SHADOW DAY?

Zero Shadow Day is an astronomical event where the Sun is directly overhead at solar noon, a result of Earth's axial tilt of about 23.5 degrees and its orbit around the Sun.

This phenomenon is most pronounced in locations near the equator, where the Sun passes directly overhead during the equinoxes. It occurs twice a year in areas situated between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn.

WHEN DOES IT TYPICALLY OCCUR?

Zero Shadow Day happens biannually in regions between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn. According to the Astronomical Society of India (ASI), it usually occurs when the Sun reaches its zenith point, with dates varying based on specific locations and latitudes.

This event carries cultural and educational significance, often celebrated as a unique astronomical event. It serves as an opportunity to educate people about Earth's axial tilt, its orbit around the Sun, and the changing angles of sunlight throughout the year.