The Earth as seen from the International Space Station
© JSC/NAS
So close, yet so far. Earth at Perihelion
We've reached perihelion! Two weeks after winter solstice the Earth's orbit is closer to the sun than on any other time of year—a result of the Earth’s elliptical orbit. You may think, 'if we’re so close to the sun, why can’t I feel the heat?' Well, that's because we're only receiving about 7% more solar energy than normal, which doesn’t really have much impact on the weather.
Related Images
Fujian Tulou complex of historical and cultural heritage buildings in Fujian province, China
Young stars forming in the Tarantula Nebula, James Webb Space Telescope
Stuttgart Public Library, Germany
Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival, Harbin, China
Land art painting entitled 'World in Progress II' by artist Saype at the Headquarters of the United Nations in New York City
Dolomite Mountains at night with the Milky Way, Italy
Arvada Skatepark, Arvada, Colorado
The National Aquatics Centre in Beijing, China
Bing Today Images
Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, California
Jan 04, 2024
