To The Sun — When Is The Northern Hemisphere Closest

The Northern Hemisphere is closest to the Sun during , specifically around January 4–5 .

In contrast, the Northern Hemisphere is farthest from the Sun (aphelion) in early July.

This point in Earth’s orbit is called . Although it might seem surprising (since it’s winter in the Northern Hemisphere), the closeness to the Sun is less important for seasons than the tilt of Earth’s axis . During perihelion, the Northern Hemisphere is tilted away from the Sun, receiving sunlight at a lower angle and for fewer hours — hence the colder weather.