When Is the Last Day of Summer?

Astronomical Summer

Astronomically speaking, summer begins on the June solstice and ends on the September equinox. The exact dates vary slightly each year, but the June solstice typically occurs around June 21st, and the September equinox typically occurs around September 22nd or 23rd.

Astronomical summer is defined by the Earth's position in its orbit around the Sun. On the June solstice, the Earth's Northern Hemisphere is tilted at its maximum away from the Sun. As a result, the Sun is at its highest point in the sky, and the Northern Hemisphere experiences its longest day of the year.

As the Earth continues to orbit the Sun, the Northern Hemisphere begins to tilt back towards the Sun. This causes the days to get shorter, and the temperatures to start to cool down. By the September equinox, the Earth is again perpendicular to the Sun, and the Northern Hemisphere experiences equal amounts of daylight and darkness.

Meteorological Summer

Meteorologically speaking, summer begins on June 1st and ends on August 31st. Meteorological seasons are based on temperature patterns rather than the Earth's position in its orbit. In the Northern Hemisphere, meteorological summer is the warmest time of the year.

The meteorological definition of summer is more commonly used for practical purposes, such as determining when to schedule outdoor activities and when to wear summer clothing. However, it is important to note that the astronomical definition of summer is the more precise one.

Conclusion

The last day of summer, according to the astronomical definition, is the September equinox. However, according to the meteorological definition, the last day of summer is August 31st.