On this day — scientifically known as the winter solstice — the sun will reach its lowest point in the winter sky, at latitude 23.5 degrees south of the equator, shortening the day in Moscow to just 6 hours, 59 minutes and 51 seconds.
Cushman notes that the day has been gradually shortening since the beginning of December, when it was 7 hours and 27 minutes long, but it will start to lengthen as soon as December 21st passes, reaching 7 hours and 5 minutes by the end of the month.
This increase will continue until June 21, 2026, when the day will reach its peak at 17 hours and 33 minutes, on the longest day of the year — the summer solstice — to restore balance to the astronomical cycle, and open the door to a longer season of light.
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