Sonnenabstand

The Sonnenabstand, or solar distance, refers to the average distance between the Earth and the Sun. This distance is approximately 149.6 million kilometers (92.96 million miles). It is a fundamental astronomical unit used to measure distances within the Solar System. The concept of the Sonnenabstand is crucial for understanding the Earth's orbit and its relationship with other celestial bodies.

The Earth's orbit around the Sun is not perfectly circular; it is elliptical. This means that the distance between the Earth and the Sun varies throughout the year. The closest approach, known as perihelion, occurs around January 3, when the Earth is about 147.1 million kilometers (91.4 million miles) from the Sun. The farthest point, known as aphelion, happens around July 4, when the Earth is about 152.1 million kilometers (94.5 million miles) from the Sun.

The average distance, or Sonnenabstand, is used as a standard reference point for calculating other distances in the Solar System. For example, the astronomical unit (AU) is defined as exactly 149,597,870.7 kilometers (92,955,807.3 miles), which is the current best estimate of the Sonnenabstand.

The Sonnenabstand is also significant for understanding the Earth's climate and seasons. The variation in solar distance contributes to the differences in solar radiation received by different parts of the Earth at different times of the year, influencing seasonal changes.