Learning outcomeExplain why Earth’s axial tilt changes sunlight angle and day length across seasons.
Interactive 3D model
SunlightEarth + observerAxial tilt
June solstice24° axial tilt · 23.5° solar declination
Drag to orbit · Scroll to zoom
Solar declination23.5°
Noon sun altitude73.5°
Hemisphere seasonNorthern summer tendency
What’s happening
At this orbital position, it is the Northern Hemisphere summer. Earth’s moderate tilt changes the Sun’s angle and day length through the year. At 40° latitude, that changing Sun angle is what sets the local seasonal sunlight—not Earth being much closer to the Sun.