essay on zero shadow day in english

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Zero Shadow Day

Zero Shadow Day is a special celestial event that occurs twice a year. During this time, no shadows appear of any object or living being when the sun is at its highest point in the sky.

Latest Context: 

Odisha, Bhubaneswar witnessed Zero Shadow Day on May 21st 2021 for about 3 minutes. The topic, ‘Zero Shadow Day’ is relevant for candidates preparing for UPSC Prelims since it has been in news recently.

The article aims to provide detailed information on Zero Shadow Day to help candidates prepare for their IAS Exam (Science and Technology) as well as other competitive exams.

What is Zero Shadow Day?

• Zero Shadow Days (ZSD) are the days when the sun will rise at true east and set at true west.
• It is a biannual phenomenon when the sun is exactly overhead and the shadows of any object disappear for a few minutes.
• A subsolar point happens when the sun is at its highest point in the sky, its rays will be hitting a particular point exactly perpendicular to the surface.
• Zero Shadow Day happens twice a day at a particular place. It usually happens in the regions between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn. 
• When the sun is at the zenith (the highest point in the sky) its rays make the shadow of any object to be exactly under it, making it look like there are no shadows.
• Indian states of Chennai, Mumbai and Pune fall between Tropic of Cancer and Tropic of Capricorn and so are likely to observe Zero Shadow Day whereas, its capital New Delhi does not fall between Tropic of Cancer and Tropic of Capricorn and so it wouldn’t observe Zero Shadow Day.

Additionally, candidates can take a look at the following links to assist their preparation for upcoming exams even better – 

Zero Shadow Day – Concept

• The Earth’s rotation axis is inclined at 23.5 degrees to the plane of its revolution around the Sun, which is why we have seasons.
• Which means that the Sun, at its highest point of the day, will move from 23.5 degrees south of the celestial equator to 23.5 degrees north of the equator (Uttarayan), and back again (Dakshinayan), in a year.
• Hence, one Zero Shadow Day falls during the Uttarayan (when the Sun moves northwards), and the other falls during Dakshinayan (when the Sun moves southwards). For people living between 23.5 degrees north and 23.5 degrees south latitudes, the Sun’s declination will be equal to their latitude twice.
• Zero Shadow Day happens twice a year, in May and July or August, observed in places that lie between the tropic of cancer and tropic of Capricorn.
• This phenomenon lasts for a small part of a second, but the effect can be seen for a minute to a minute-and-a-half.

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What Is The ‘Zero Shadow Day’?

How are shadows formed, why does the sun cast a shadow, what is the ‘zero shadow day’, why does the ‘zero shadow day’ occur, significance of ‘zero shadow day’.

The ‘Zero Shadow Day’ is a peculiar phenomenon that occurs twice a year. It occurs when the sun rays fall exactly perpendicularly on an object, so it seems as if no shadow is being cast.

My little cousin, who is around two years old, discovered his shadow very recently. At first, he was intimidated by it, but gradually started to enjoy dancing with his new ‘light-weather’ companion.

This reminded me of the science class where I learned about shadows and an uncommon phenomenon known as the ‘Zero Shadow Day’.

In this article, we’ll take a comprehensive dive into this rare event.

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A shadow is an area of darkness formed due to a blockage in the path of the light rays. When an opaque object is placed in the path of the rays of light, the object casts a shadow on another object behind it (like the ground or a wall).

This happens because light travels in straight lines. Normally, light doesn’t bend and pass around an object.

The center area of the shadow is the darkest, as it receives a negligible amount of light and is called the umbra.

The rest of the shadow is lighter, moving outwards from the umbra, because some amount of light still reaches it. This area is called the penumbra.

The type of shadow is determined by the position and intensity of the source of light. When the light source is like a point, then only the umbra region is present in the shadow. Whereas, an extended light source produces a shadow with both the umbra and penumbra regions.

Also Read: Why Don’t Birds And Airplanes Cast Shadows?

The sun is a source of light, hence it is capable of producing a shadow. The light rays from the Sun travel towards the Earth in straight lines. When an opaque object is placed in its path of travel, it doesn’t allow the rays to pass through them, and instead casts a shadow of that object on the other side.

Note that transparent objects don’t cast shadows because they allow light to pass through them, offering no blockage to the path of light.

The length and intensity of the shadow formed by the sunlight depend on the position of the Sun and its intensity. For example, the shadows formed in early mornings and late afternoons are lighter and more elongated in shape, but the shadows are shorter and darker at noon, when the Sun is overhead.

The catch here is that the Sun doesn’t always cast a shadow. This is exactly what the ‘Zero Shadow Day’ phenomenon refers to.

The ‘Zero Shadow Day’, as the name suggests refers to the day when the Sun’s shadow is exactly beneath the object, so the object appears to be casting no shadow.

It is a biannual phenomenon that occurs in regions between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn. On the day of Zero Shadow, the shadow seems to disappear for one particular position.

This phenomenon may last only for a few seconds, with its effect lasting for up to a minute to a minute-and-half.

Also Read: What Is A Flat Earth Eclipse?

On the ‘Zero Shadow Day’, the Sun follows its exact path from sunrise to sunset. The rotation axis of the Earth is inclined at an angle of 23.5 degrees with its plane of revolution around the Sun.

Therefore, for people living between 23.5 degrees North and 23.5 degrees South latitudes, the Sun’s declination becomes equal to their latitude twice a year, when the Sun moves towards the North, known as the Uttarayan, derived from Sanskrit, meaning the Sun’s northwards journey from Winter Solstice to Summer Solstice (December 22nd to June 21st), and when it moves towards the South, known as the Dakshinayan, derived from Sanskrit, meaning the Sun’s southwards journey from Summer Solstice to Winter Solstice (June 21st to December 22nd). This gives rise to the ‘Zero Shadow Day’ phenomenon twice a year.

On this day, the Sun is exactly at the zenith (or the highest point of the sky) and the rays fall exactly perpendicular to the object. This makes the shadow fall directly under the object, so no shadow is visible.

This phenomenon happens at different times at different places, according to their latitudinal positions. In India, it happens in the month of April-May and August-September.

People living in the Indian states of Chennai and Mumbai are most likely to observe the ‘Zero Shadow Day’ because they lie between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn, but the people residing in New Delhi won’t be able to witness it because it is not between the 23.5 degrees North and South latitudes.

In the USA, Hawaii is the only state to witnesses this bi-annual phenomenon. This event is known as the “Lāhainā Noon” there. The UK doesn’t experience ‘Zero Shadow Day’ at all, owing to its location beyond the Tropic of Cancer.

Also Read: Midnight Sun And Polar Nights: What Are They And Why Do They Occur?

Like any peculiar phenomenon, the ‘Zero Shadow Day’ has found significance in both history and astronomy.

Eratosthenes, a Greek mathematician and astronomer, used this phenomenon to calculate the circumference of the Earth about 2000 years ago. How? Well, that is a discussion for another article.

Scientists and astronomers have used this phenomenon to determine the radius and the speed of rotation of the Earth.

Sometimes, the absence of things can be as fascinating as their presence. ‘Zero Shadow Day’ is one such rare celestial phenomenon that has caught the attention of people around the world since time immemorial.

It could be used as a day to educate your little ones about the science behind shadows and their formation, or it could be a day to learn about how celestial phenomena have shaped our understanding of the universe!

Also Read: Why Do We Sometimes See The Moon During The Day?

• Light and shadows - Science Learning Hub. sciencelearn.org.nz
• Keeping Cool With Shadows - NASA. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration
• Can the sun cast a shadow on Earth? – BioSidmartin - www.sidmartinbio.org
• Zero Shadow Day – ASI POEC - Astronomical Society of India. The Astronomical Society of India
• Alone in the Tropics on Zero Shadow Day - PlankSip. planksip.org

Shreya Chakraborty is pursuing her master’s degree in Physics from NSUT, New Delhi. She is passionate about literature and writing, which allows her to express her scientific interests easily and effectively. She enjoys watching Sci-Fi movies, writing poems and articles, and wondering at the beauty of the night sky.

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Zero Shadow day

A group of students was provided first-hand experience of the Zero Shadow Day (ZSD) phenomenon at an event organised by the Pondicherry Science Forum (PSF).

About zero shadow day.

• It is a sub-solar point where the sun is directly overhead at a particular latitude.
• When the sun is at the zenith (the highest point in the sky) its rays will be hitting a particular point exactly perpendicular to the surface.
• This will make the shadow of a person exactly under him, making it look like there are no shadows.

When does it occur?

• There are two zero shadow days every year in May and July/August, observed in places that lie between the tropic of Cancer and the tropic of Capricorn.
• One falls during the Uttarayan (when the Sun moves northwards), and the other is during Dakshinayan (when the Sun moves southwards).

It lasts for a small part of a second, but the effect can be seen for a minute to a minute-and-a-half.

Q1: What is the Tropic of Cancer?

It is a latitude approximately 23°27′ N of the terrestrial Equator. This latitude corresponds to the northernmost declination of the Sun’s ecliptic to the celestial equator.

Source: Children experience “Zero Shadow” phenomenon

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Zero Shadow Day

Published: 3rd May, 2024

In Bengaluru, an extraordinary celestial phenomenon known as “Zero Shadow Day” recently captivated observers.

• During this event, the sun’s rays create minimal shadows, effectively turning the world into a place without shadows and filling the sky with light.
• This rare occurrence happens twice a year in regions situated between +23.5 and -23.5 degrees latitude.
• On Zero Shadow Day, the sun stands directly overhead at noon, causing shadows to vanish.
• The Astronomical Society of India (ASI) explains that when the sun is precisely overhead, it does not cast a shadow on any surface.
• It’s a fascinating moment when the natural world seems to defy its usual patterns.

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Zero Shadow Day

Context : Recently, Bengaluru experienced a ‘ Zero Shadow Day’ , when vertical objects appear to cast no shadow.

About Zero Shadow Day:

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Zero Shadow Day

• April 26, 2023
• Posted by: OptimizeIAS Team
• Category: DPN Topics

Subject :Geography

Section: Climatology

Context: On April 25, Bengaluru experienced a ‘Zero Shadow Day’ , when vertical objects appear to cast no shadow.

What is Zero Shadow Day?

• ‘Zero Shadow Day’ is an astronomical event that occurs twice a year on specific dates in some parts of the world.
• It is a phenomenon that occurs when the Sun is directly overhead and the shadows of vertical objects such as poles, trees, and buildings disappear completely for a brief period of time.

Why does a Zero Shadow Day happen?

• Uttarayan ( movement of the Sun from south to north from winter solstice to summer solstice) and Dakshinayan ( back from north to south ) happen because Earth’s rotation axis is tilted at an angle of roughly 23.5° to the axis of revolution around the Sun.
• Ramanujam explained that the Sun’s location moves from 23.5°N to 23.5°S of Earth’s equator and back. All places whose latitude equals the angle between the Sun’s location and the equator on that day experience zero shadow day , with the shadow beneath an object at local noon.

When does a Zero Shadow Day happen?

• The dates of Zero Shadow Day vary from place to place , and the event is more likely to occur near the equator. This phenomenon lasts for a small part of a second , but the effect can be seen for a minute to a minute-and-a-half.

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Zero Shadow Day

Zero Shadow Day occurs when the sun’s rays are directly overhead, causing objects to cast no shadows, typically observed near the equator twice a year, showcasing celestial phenomena. It happens in all locations where the latitude aligns with the angle between the Sun’s position and the equator on that specific day.

In this article, we will understand the meaning of zero shadow day, facts about zero shadow day, and the phenomenon behind the zero shadow day.

Zero Shadow Day Overview

Zero Shadow Day – Concept

Zero Shadow Days, or ZSD, occur biannually when the sun rises directly in the east and sets directly in the west. During this phenomenon, the sun reaches its zenith, or highest point in the sky, resulting in objects casting no shadows for a brief period.

This happens when the sun’s rays, known as the subsolar point, hit the Earth’s surface at a 90-degree angle. ZSD typically occur between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn. Regions within this zone, like Chennai, Mumbai, and Pune, are likely to experience Zero Shadow Days, while areas outside this range, such as New Delhi, do not observe this phenomenon.

Facts About Zero Shadow Day

Some facts about zero shadow day are:

• The Earth is tilted at an angle, making the Sun appear higher or lower in the sky at different times of the year.
• Zero Shadow Day occurs twice a year when the Sun is directly above certain places on Earth.
• It occurs when you’re in a location between two imaginary lines on the globe which is called the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn.
• During Zero Shadow Day, the objects don’t cast shadows for a short time because the Sun is right above them.
• This special day occurs in May and either July or August.
• Even though Zero Shadow Day lasts for a very short moment, one can see its effects for about one to one-and-a-half minutes.

The Phenomenon Behind Zero Shadow Day

• The Astronomical Society of India (ASI) suggests that the main reason for zero shadow days is how the sun is positioned.
• When the sun is right above or its light directly hits objects, the solar angle is very low, resulting in no shadows. This happens when the Sun’s declination matches the location’s latitude.
• On a zero-show day, when the sun passes the local meridian, its rays fall straight down, perfectly vertical to an object on the ground.
• This means there’s no declination, and the viewer, the sun, and the objects form a 90-degree angle. Since the light rays don’t bend after hitting the object, there’s no angle, and hence, no shadow is cast.
• Zero-shadow days vary in different places due to the sun’s position, which changes globally. This event happens twice a year when the sun is directly above regions near the equator.
• It’s important to know that the zero-shadow effect is mostly seen with vertical objects aligning with the sun’s rays, causing a low solar angle and no shadow. This includes tall buildings, trees, and poles whose shadows vanish briefly at noon.

When is Zero Shadow Day at your location? 

Here’s the Zero Shadow Day (ZSD) information for various places, now formatted into a table for clarity. This phenomenon occurs due to the sun’s position directly overhead, causing no shadow for objects at solar noon. The dates provided are for two occurrences each year for the specified locations:

Zero Shadow Day is a celestial event that occurs twice a year near the equator when the sun is directly overhead. This results in objects casting no shadows. This phenomenon is linked to the Earth’s tilt and the sun’s position, which creates a unique alignment.

The associated facts and explanations contribute to a deeper understanding of this natural occurrence, emphasizing its significance in various regions. As a momentary spectacle, Zero Shadow Day showcases the intricate relationship between Earth and the Sun, leaving a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to witness it.

The event’s frequency, cultural recognition, and the science behind it add layers to the appreciation of this intriguing celestial phenomenon

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Zero Shadow Day – FAQs

What is no shadow day.

No Shadow Day happens when objects don’t make shadows because the sun is right above them, so there are no angles to create shadows.

When Does Zero Shadow Day happen?

Zero Shadow Day happens when the sun is directly above a place, usually twice a year near the equator, making it seem like there are no shadows.

Why Do Vertical Objects Not Cast on Zero Shadow Day?

Vertical things like buildings or trees don’t make shadows on Zero Shadow Day because the sunlight hits them straight down, so there are no angles to create shadows.

How Often Does Zero Shadow Day Occur?

Zero Shadow Day occurs twice a year near the equator when the sun is directly overhead, but it can vary in other places depending on the sun’s position.

Is Zero Shadow Day the Same Everywhere in The World?

No, Zero Shadow Day is different in other parts of the world because it depends on where you are and how the sun is positioned. It happens more often near the equator but less frequently in other places.

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• Science & Technology /

Zero Shadow Day in India 2023: All You Need to Know

• Updated on  
• Aug 18, 2023

Zero Shadow Day in India: When the sun remains directly overhead and forms no shadow of any object, that day is known as Zero Shadow Day. On 18 August 2023, Bengaluru will witness Zero Shadow Day for just 3 minutes. This is a special celestial event that occurs twice a year. Earlier, 0 Shadow Day occurred in Bengaluru on April 25, 2023.

Table of Contents

• 1.1 Quick Facts About Zero Shadow Day in India
• 2 Science Behind No Shadow Day

What is Zero Shadow Day?

During the Zero Shadow Day event, the sun reaches the highest point of the sky (zenith position), which results in the size reduction of the object’s shadow to the extent that it is no longer visible. It occurs between the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn (+23.5 and -23.5 degrees latitude). This event is also known as no shadow day in some places of the world.

Also Read: Tropic of Cancer Passes Through How Many States in India?

Quick Facts About Zero Shadow Day in India

• Zero Shadow Day is a biannual celestial event that occurs in a particular place.
• Bengaluru, Bhubaneshwar, Mumbai, and Chennai are the cities that lie between the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn, so are likely to observe Zero Shadow Day.
• Zero Shadow Day occurs only in April, May, and August.
• The next Zero Shadow Day is expected to take place in Bengaluru on April 25, 2024

Also Read: What is the Distance Between Moon and Earth?

Science Behind No Shadow Day

On Zero Shadow Day, when the sun crosses the location of the meridian, sun rays fall directly at 90 degrees. Due to this, the length of an object’s shadow starts reducing until it is no longer visible. The Earth’s axial tilt is about 23.5 degrees, which contributes to this captivating event. In other words, during this declination of Sun becomes equal to the longitude of the location.

Must Read: What is The Distance Between Earth and Sun?

When the Sun is directly overhead on any object and forms no shadow for a few minutes, that day is known as a no shadow day or Zero Shadow day.

Zero Shadow Day is a biannual event so it occurs two times a year.

We hope that you have collected information related to Zero Shadow Day in India? If you want to binge on more facts like this, you can turn to our  general knowledge  page. Alternatively, you can also check out our blog on  general knowledge for competitive exams  here! Keep learning!

Raj Vimal has experience of 5+ years in Content Writing, which includes 3+ years in EdTech writing. I have prior experience on the technicalities of Study abroad. Also, I have done content for government job exams like PSC. Apart from this, I have worked as a journalist in several media brands. I hold a Master's degree in Mass Communication and New Media Technology. When I am not doing deep dive into content writing, I love to spend some Me time with books and street dogs or sometime in the kitchen.

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ZERO SHADOW DAY

Disclaimer: Copyright infringement not intended.

• Bengaluru is witnessing "Zero Shadow Day".
• Zero Shadow Day is a celestial phenomenon wherein vertical objects won't have any shadow for brief period of time.

Place of occurrence

• As per Astronomical Society of India, the celestial phenomenon takes place near the equator which falls between Tropic of Capricorn and Tropic of Cancer .

Frequency of occurrence

• For every point on Earth between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn, t here are two Zero Shadow Days a year.
• Thus, this celestial phenomenon takes place twice a year and all vertical objects stop casting shadows on the ground.

In a nutshell,

Zero Shadow Day occurs when the Sun will be directly overhead at local noon, and hence any vertical object will cast no shadow. This happens for places between the Tropic of Cancer and Tropic of Capricorn .

Why does a Zero Shadow Day happen?

• The Sun is almost never exactly overhead at noon, but usually transits a bit lower in altitude, a bit to the north or a bit to the south.
• The Earth's rotation axis is inclined at 23.5 degrees to the plane of its revolution around the Sun, which is why we have seasons. This also means that the Sun, in its highest point of the day, will move from 23.5 degrees south of the celestial equator to 23.5 degrees north of the equator (Uttarayan), and back again (Dakshinayan), in a year.
• Uttarayan (movement of the Sun from south to north from winter solstice to summer solstice) and Dakshinayan (back from north to south) happen because Earth’s rotation axis is tilted at an angle of roughly 23.5° to the axis of revolution around the Sun.
• The Sun’s location moves from 23.5°N to 23.5°S of Earth’s equator and back .
• For people living between +23.5 and -23.5 degrees latitude, the Sun's declination will be equal to their latitude twice - once during Uttarayan and once during Dakshinayan.
• On these two days, the Sun will be exactly overhead at noon and will not cast a shadow of an object on the ground.
• This Zero Shadow Day will clearly be different for different places on Earth.

https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-sci-tech/bengaluru-zero-shadow-day-what-is-it-why-does-it-happen-8575725/

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Zero Shadow Day in Bengaluru: All you need to know about the celestial event

Zero shadow day not only offers a moment of wonder but also serves as an educational opportunity that highlights the intricate movements of celestial bodies..

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• Zero Shadow Day occurs when the sun's position in the sky is exactly at the zenith
• This phenomenon is observed twice a year
• It occurs in regions situated between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn

People in Bengaluru will experience a rare celestial phenomenon when their shadows will disappear on Wednesday.

The phenomenon is known as 'Zero Shadow Day,' and will be experienced by places in the same latitudes as Bengaluru in India. This unique event will occur between 12:17 PM and 12:23 PM.

WHAT IS ZERO SHADOW DAY?

Zero Shadow Day occurs when the sun's position in the sky is exactly at the zenith, meaning it is directly above a particular latitude. This alignment results in the sun's rays hitting the ground at a perfect 90-degree angle, eliminating any shadow for vertical objects like poles or even people standing upright.