Latest sunrises happen in early January

By Bruce McClure

So you like to sleep late, but don’t want to miss the sunrise? This time of year is for you. Sleep on – if you live in the Northern Hemisphere, that is. The latest sunrises of 2017 are happening around now for mid-latitudes in the Northern Hemisphere. For example, sunrise time in the central U.S. – say, around Wichita, Kansas – for the next several days will be around 7:45 a.m..

Meanwhile, if you live in the Southern Hemisphere, your latest sunsets are happening around now, assuming you’re at mid-southern latitudes.

Many sky watchers notice this phenomenon, which is part of an unvarying sequence each year. For us at mid-northern latitudes in the Northern Hemisphere, the sequence is: earliest sunset in early December, shortest day at the solstice around December 21, latest sunrise in early January.

At middle latitudes in the Southern Hemisphere, the sequence is: earliest sunrise in early December, longest day at the December solstice, latest sunset in early January.

This natural order is part of what we can expect, every year, from nature.

The December solstice always brings the shortest day to the Northern Hemisphere and the longest day to the Southern Hemisphere. But, clearly, the latest sunrise doesn’t coincide with the day of least daylight, and the latest sunset doesn’t happen on the day of greatest daylight. Why not?

The main reason is that the Earth’s rotational axis is tilted 23.5^o out of vertical to the plane of our orbit around the sun. A secondary reason is that the Earth’s orbit isn’t a perfect circle. Due to our eccentric orbit (that’s an orbit shaped like a squashed circle, with the sun slightly off its center), Earth travels fastest in January and slowest in July.

Clock time gets a bit out of sync with sun time – by about the tune of 1/2 minute per day for several weeks around the December solstice.

Because solar noon (midday) comes later by the clock today than on the solstice, so do the times of sunrise and sunset. The table below helps to explain:

For Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Date	Sunrise	Solar Noon (Midday)	Sunset	Daylight Hours
December 7	7:09 a.m.	11:52 a.m.	4:35 p.m.	9 hours 26 minutes
December 21	7:19 a.m.	11:59 a.m.	4:39 p.m.	9 hours 20 minutes
January 3	7:23 a.m.	12:05 p.m.	4:48 p.m.	9 hours 25 minutes

The exact date for the latest sunrise or latest sunset varies by latitude. At present, mid-temperate latitudes in the Northern Hemisphere have their latest sunrises, while the Southern Hemisphere’s mid-temperate latitudes are watching their latest sunsets. At latitudes closer to the equator, the latest sunrise or latest sunset has yet to come. Closer to the Arctic and Antarctic Circles, the latest sunrise and latest sunset have already come and gone.

But in either the Northern or Southern Hemisphere, the sequence is always the same:

1) earliest sunset, winter solstice, latest sunrise
2) earliest sunrise, summer solstice, latest sunset

Bottom line: Notice the time of sunrise and sunset at this time of year. If you’re in the Northern Hemisphere, your latest sunrises are happening around now at mid-northern latitudes. If you’re in the Southern Hemisphere, mid-latitudes are watching the year’s latest sunsets. Enjoy them!

Bruce McClure

Bruce McClure has served as lead writer for EarthSky’s popular Tonight pages since 2004. He’s a sundial aficionado, whose love for the heavens has taken him to Lake Titicaca in Bolivia and sailing in the North Atlantic, where he earned his celestial navigation certificate through the School of Ocean Sailing and Navigation. He also writes and hosts public astronomy programs and planetarium programs in and around his home in upstate New York.

Article originally published on Earth Sky

The Wisdom of Buddha

We are formed and molded by our thoughts. Those whose minds are shaped by selfless thoughts give joy when they speak or act. Joy follows them like a shadow that never leaves them.

Your Charm for January 3rd is The Menat

Your Charm for Today

Today’s Meaning:
A few prayers to your deity of choice would serve you well when dealing with this aspect. Your questions or requests stand a better chance of being answered in the next few days if you do so.

General Description:
This elaborately ornamental charm, worn by Egyptian women, was supposed to bestow upon them all the blessings of their powerful Hathor, goddess of the sunrise, whose worship was universal in Egypt. Health, strength, happiness – all these were the gifts of this their goddess of love. She was regarded as a loving, protecting mother, both of the living and of the dead; was the deity who filled both heaven and earth with her beneficence, and the dispenser of all the blessings of life.

Your MahJong Tile for the Month of January is Wan 4, Symbol: Lute

Your MahJong Tile for the Month of January

Wan 4
Symbol: Lute

The Lute tile indicates a need for relaxation—a break from the stress of your everyday life. For people nearing the end of their career it may suggest that the time for them to retire has come.

One for the Animal Lover in All of Us….

Feather Folklore for the Hawk

Advice from a Hawk

Your Animal Spirit Guide for January 3rd is The Hawk

Your Ancient Symbol Oracle for January 3rd is Justice

Your Ancient Symbol Oracle for Today

Justice

Justice represents the expression of fairness without bias. Simply put, Justice embodies the notion that what is right is right and what is wrong is wrong. Justice denotes the need to remedy situations lacking equality for all. Depending on the circumstances, Justice may be asking us to curb our partiality, or conversely, Justice may indicate a time for you to demand fair treatment.

Your Influences for the Week of January 2nd

Tarot Influence

Ace of Cups

Love, joy, and contentment productiveness and fertility can be had.

Astrological Influence

Libra

Libra denotes justice and balance. That which should rightfully be shall be.

Element Influence

Water

Water is the card of hidden truths and emotions. It also calms and soothes and is basic to life. The Water card may denote a period of discovery, fulfillment through learning and the unraveling of mysteries.

Your Crowley Thoth Tarot Card for January 3rd is The Universe

Your Crowley Thoth Tarot Card for Today

The Universe

Like The Sun, The Universe brings good blessings. The Universe appears where all is in balance. It allows you to act effectively not only as an individual but as a member of a group too. The Universe promises contentment, fulfillment and completeness to those under its influence. It doesn’t guarantee there will not be moments of strife or discord in your life, but it does indicate that your trials and tribulations will be overcome; that ultimately you will know inner-peace and contentment. The Universe suggests you have found or will find your place in the scheme of things—that place where all is as it should be.

Your Daily I Ching Hexagram for January 3rd is 01:Creative

Your Daily Rune for Tuesday, January 3 is Berkano

Learning The Tarot – The Fool

The Fool

Let go of expectations and trust your instincts.

General Meaning

Pamela Coleman-Smith’s artful rendition of The Fool in the Rider-Waite Tarot deck is often used to represent Tarot in general. Early classical versions of The Fool card, however, portray quite a different character — a person driven by base needs and urges, who has fallen into a state of poverty and deprivation.

In some earlier instances, The Fool is made out to be a carnival entertainer or a huckster. In others, he is portrayed as decrepit and vulnerable — as the cumulative result of his delusions and failures. Not until the 20th century do you see the popular Rider-Waite image of The Fool arise — that of an innocent soul before its fall into matter, untainted by contact with society and all its ills.

Modern decks usually borrow from the Rider-Waite imagery. Most Fool cards copy the bucolic mountainside scene, the butterfly, and the potential misplaced step that will send The Fool tumbling into the unknown. Don’t forget, though, that the earlier versions of this card represented already-fallen humanity, over-identified with the material plane of existence, and beginning a pilgrimage toward self-knowledge and, eventually, wisdom. The Fool reminds us to recognize the path of personal development within ourselves — and the stage upon that path where we find ourselves — in order to energize our movement toward deeper self-realization.

In the Advice Position

Let go of preconceived ideas and remain open to change.

The card in the Advice position suggests a course of action which will harmonize what you want with what is currently possible.

The Fool advises that you lighten up. Let yourself be spontaneous enough to stretch beyond the realm of logic. There is no advantage to be gained by thinking you possess the knowledge, power, or control to direct reality. Open and receive without question, instead of trying to manage what’s happening right now. The Fool has no ambition to manipulate a specific outcome. Just be happy to be part of the whole.

Release any demands or expectations. Give your complete attention to events as they are occurring in the present moment.

Part of the Daily Insight Group

Your Daily Tarot Card for Tuesday, January 3 is The Moon

Your Personal Daily Tarot Card

The Moon

The Moon represents those forces which remain largely hidden to us. The light of the moon provides some illumination down a path into the unknown, but not enough to brighten the landscape like The Sun, or cut through the dark shadows from which the unexpected may leap. However, The Moon is not without gifts we can use. She spurs our imagination and creativity. She can be a portal to knowledge and experience beyond the realm of our everyday lives. But Her offerings are not available to the feint of heart. To receive what The Moon offers one must have the courage to follow uncharted paths and the intelligence to find truths hidden in a bewildering setting rife with illusion. For those who can make this journey the reward may be finding the key to making their dreams come true.

Get A Jump on Tomorrow, Your Daily Horoscopes for Wednesday, January 4

Get A Jump on Tomorrow…..

Your Daily Horoscopes for Wednesday, January 4

by Rick Levine

General Horoscope

Reviewing our recent past may be just what the doctor ordered, but we struggle to reminisce when we’re so eager to move ahead. Retrograde Mercury backs into philosophical Sagittarius for a week of reconsidering the truth of our beliefs. However, the Moon’s shift into progressive Aries at 11:19 am EST adds a high level of impatience to the mix. We have a unique chance to balance our desire for new experiences with the wisdom of contemplation.

Aries Horoscope MAR 21 – APR 19

Although you’re no stranger to impatience, your willingness to slow down for others just might be at an all-time low. You are redefining the meaning of urgency now that the Moon is back in your impulsive sign. But the cosmic signals are decidedly mixed because retrograde Mercury isn’t ready to let you move ahead yet, even if it is in contact with fiery Mars. You may have no choice but to wait this one out, since the control tower is unable to give you clearance until next week. In the meantime, let your dreams nourish your ambitions until you’re able to take flight.

Taurus Horoscope APR 20 – MAY 20

You’re unsure how to handle your high-strung nerves today. Although you might long for a more laid-back day, everything runs smoother if you temporarily drop your need for control. However, keeping your restlessness to yourself presents its own layer of challenges. Sharing your desire for more peace and quiet could actually help you put it to rest, especially if your conversation turns more spirited than you expect. Russian author Boris Pasternak wrote, “Surprise is the greatest gift which life can grant us.”

Gemini Horoscope MAY 21 – JUN 20

You’re in your element and may be pleasantly surprised that people appear to be as upbeat and talkative as you today. Sometimes you need to exercise self-restraint because your endless antics can exhaust your friends. Thankfully, bouncing all over the place like Tigger the Tiger doesn’t seem out of place because so many others are experiencing the same degree of unrestrained enthusiasm. Consider this a cosmic permission slip to plant seeds of love and inspiration wherever you roam. Happiness is contagious, pass it on.

Cancer Horoscope JUN 21 – JUL 22

Your mind is brimming with good ideas about nearly everything and you are capable of inventing a better plan than anyone else today. The problem is that people won’t accept your solution at face value; in fact, they may even oppose your efforts. You’re often willing to set your position aside or, at least, negotiate a workable compromise. However, you’re quite prepared to head off on your own now if no one jumps in with the support you want. Those who fly solo have the strongest wings.

Leo Horoscope JUL 23 – AUG 22

It’s nearly impossible to tell if you’re more exciting or excited today. Either way, there’s enthusiasm coming and going, and it really doesn’t matter whether you’re sending or receiving. The responsive Moon and retrograde Mercury shift into fire signs, fueling your desire to make something big happen. Unfortunately, you’re so easily inspired to initiate action that you provoke trouble, even if it’s the opposite of your intentions. Nevertheless, several planets are hanging out in psychic Pisces, giving you a chance to explore non-verbal forms of communication. Your sixth sense is your best sense.

Virgo Horoscope AUG 23 – SEP 22

You might wish you didn’t have to rely on your feelings to navigate through the emotional currents today. Normally, your savvy mental analysis reveals a path that is good for all. However, trickster Mercury retrogrades into your 4th House of Home and Family, fomenting creative disagreements and numerous misunderstandings. Motivational speaker, Tony Gaskins says, “Arguing isn’t communication; it’s noise.” True resolution is possible when you stop focusing on who is wrong, and concentrate on what is right.

Libra Horoscope SEP 23 – OCT 22

Relationships may be the primary source of your angst today; you see multiple possibilities that are based upon different assumptions, yet can only move down one path at a time. Paradoxically, the very same partnership that is emotionally unstable also stabilizes your wandering heart. Although you want to act on your thoughts, it might be healthier to sit with them for a while longer. Augustine of Hippo wrote, “Patience is the companion of wisdom.”

Scorpio Horoscope OCT 23 – NOV 21

You are struck with a brilliant idea about how to do a regular chore in a different manner. Your breakthrough might not work out in the long run, but there’s only one way to see if you’re on track or off the mark — and that is to actually give it a trial run. Don’t cling to a thought with innocence; test it, tweak it and test it again. Or, if your new approach doesn’t work very well at all, just eliminate it and move on to the next proposition. Fear regret more than failure.

Sagittarius Horoscope NOV 22 – DEC 21

You may be standing in a strange place in your life. Although you’re willing to boldly step into uncharted territory and express yourself in a more avant-garde manner, you’re simultaneously longing for the past when making choices wasn’t such a complicated process. It’s impossible to sustain your excitement for the future while also experiencing the fear of the unknown. However, you seem to thrive on this paradox. Keep psychologist M. Esther Harding’s words in mind: “Conflict is the beginning of consciousness.”

Capricorn Horoscope DEC 22 – JAN 19

You are looking for a whole new way of framing your relationships with family and friends today because the old assumptions may no longer be working. The pioneering Aries Moon gives you the impetus to take the ball and run with it, even if you don’t know where you’re going or what you will do when you get there. Author Frank Herbert wrote, “The future remains uncertain and so it should, for it is the canvas upon which we paint our desires.”

Aquarius Horoscope JAN 20 – FEB 18

You are living proof that leaping before you look can be a perfectly viable strategy. Unfortunately, this act-now-think-later tactic doesn’t work all the time, but the impulsive Aries Moon shifts into your 3rd House of Environment today, rewarding unpremeditated action. Fill your day with lots of activities, but don’t plan ahead too much. The more flexible your calendar, the greater your chance of creating magic in the moment without a whole lot of forethought. Germaine Greer said, “The essence of pleasure is spontaneity.”

Pisces Horoscope FEB 19 – MAR 20

Your professional aspirations are so vivid in your mind that they’re close enough to grab. However, success still appears to be relegated to the future and not the present. Nevertheless, you’re ready to put your thoughts into action, even if it requires you to take a big risk. You exude confidence and your now-or-never attitude won’t give up at the first sign of resistance. Just remember that satisfaction isn’t always the fulfillment of what you want; it’s the realization that you are blessed for what you already possess.