Frühjahrspunkt

The Frühjahrspunkt, also known as the vernal equinox, is an astronomical event that occurs around March 20th or 21st each year in the Northern Hemisphere, and around September 22nd or 23rd in the Southern Hemisphere. It marks the moment when the Sun crosses the celestial equator heading north. At this time, day and night are approximately equal in length all over the Earth.

Scientifically, the Frühjahrspunkt occurs when the Earth's orbital plane, the ecliptic, intersects with the celestial equator. This intersection point is significant because it represents a transition. For the Northern Hemisphere, it signifies the beginning of spring, while for the Southern Hemisphere, it marks the beginning of autumn.

The exact timing of the Frühjahrspunkt varies slightly from year to year due to the Gregorian calendar's leap year system and other subtle orbital variations. Astronomers precisely calculate these dates. Historically, many cultures have recognized the equinoxes as important points in the year, often incorporating them into calendars and celebrating them with festivals.

The term "Frühjahrspunkt" is German and literally translates to "spring point." It is one of two equinoxes, the other being the Herbstpunkt (autumnal equinox). These events, along with the solstices, are fundamental to understanding Earth's seasons and its orbit around the Sun.