What perihelion means for 2026
On January 3, 2026, Earth reaches a point in its orbit known as perihelion, the moment when our planet is closest to the Sun for the year. While the distance is not the sole factor behind seasonal temperatures, perihelion can influence the intensity of sunlight and the apparent size of the Sun in the sky. For observers, this translates to a Sun that looks slightly larger and a day that may feel a touch different from surrounding days.
How close are we?
Typically, Earth travels about 93 million miles (150 million kilometers) from the Sun, but at perihelion our distance briefly shrinks to roughly 91 to 92 million miles (146 to 149 million kilometers). That narrow difference matters more to astronomers than to casual skywatchers, yet it does produce a measurable change in solar irradiance and the overall brightness of the midday Sun.
Why the Sun appears larger in the sky
The Sun’s apparent radius changes by only a fraction of a degree during perihelion, but it’s enough to be noticeable to keen observers, especially during sunrise or sunset when the Sun is near the horizon. The event is a reminder of Earth’s elliptical orbit: we are not always the same distance from the Sun throughout the year, and that variation subtly colors our experience of day and night.
Historical context and expectations
Perihelion happens once every orbit, roughly around early January. In some years, atmospheric conditions and local horizon effects make the change more striking to those outside with a clear view toward the Sun. While some people worry about solar exposure during perihelion, daily exposure remains well within safe ranges if you observe the Sun with proper eye protection or simply notice the difference in brightness during the day.
What this means for Earth and skywatchers
For most people, perihelion is a reminder of the solar system’s dynamic nature. The slight increase in solar energy is balanced by the planet’s tilt and orbital geometry, so seasonal patterns are driven by axial tilt more than orbital distance. Skywatchers, however, may enjoy a moment of enhanced daylight—especially in regions with low winter sun angles—where the Sun climbs a bit higher in the sky at noon.
Tips for observing safely
If you plan to observe the Sun, never look directly at it without certified solar viewing glasses. For a milder experience, time your observations around local noon when the Sun is at its highest. If the weather allows, a quick afternoon stroll just after solar noon can reveal a Sun that appears marginally larger than on other days, adding a touch of wonder to a routine winter sky.
Bottom line
Earth’s perihelion in early January 2026 marks the moment we are physically nearest to our star, the Sun, for the year. While it doesn’t drastically alter our climate, it offers a fresh astronomical note—an opportunity to reflect on how our planet dances around the Sun and how such movements shape our daily sky observations.
