Päevapikkuse

Päevapikkuse is an Estonian term that translates to "day length" or "duration of daylight." It refers to the period of time between sunrise and sunset. The päevapikkuse varies significantly throughout the year due to the Earth's axial tilt and its orbit around the Sun. In Estonia, which is located at a high latitude, these variations are particularly pronounced.

During the summer solstice, around June 20th or 21st, Estonia experiences its longest päevapikkuse. In some parts of the country, daylight can last for almost 19 hours, leading to phenomena like the "white nights" where the sun barely dips below the horizon. Conversely, the winter solstice, around December 21st or 22nd, marks the shortest päevapikkuse. On this day, daylight can be as short as about 6 hours.

The changing päevapikkuse has a significant impact on Estonia's natural environment and human activities. It influences plant growth, animal behavior, and is a key factor in traditional agricultural cycles. For people, the variations in daylight affect mood, sleep patterns, and daily routines. The concept of päevapikkuse is deeply ingrained in Estonian culture, often reflected in folklore and seasonal celebrations. Understanding the ebb and flow of päevapikkuse is essential for appreciating the distinct seasons experienced in Estonia.