We have been seeing the Sun rise shortly before 5:30 a.m. and set before 6:30 p.m., an indication that the longest day of the year is just upon us.
According to the Philippine, Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration, the longest day and shortest night of the year is due this month, on June 21.
Thus, the country will be exposed under the Sun for a little longer during the astronomical event called the summer solstice.
PAGASA explained that summer solstice is the time when the Sun attains its greatest declination of +23.5 degrees and passes directly overhead at noon for all observers.
PAGASA Space Sciences and Astronomy Section chief Dario dela Cruz said daytime will last for 13 hours on June 21. The Sun will rise at 5:28 a.m. and will set at 6:28 p.m.
PAGASA said the event marks the start of the apparent southward movement of the Sun in the ecliptic.
(Ellalyn B. de Vera)
