Autumn equinox 2026: When is it and what happens?

The autumn equinox, also known as the September equinox, is a significant event in the astronomical calendar, marking the beginning of autumn in the northern hemisphere and spring in the southern hemisphere. This year, the autumn equinox falls on September 22 or 23, depending on the time zone. On this day, the sun crosses the celestial equator from north to south, resulting in approximately equal daylight and darkness at all points on the Earth.

The equinox is an important milestone in the changing of the seasons, and its significance extends beyond just the date. It marks a turning point in the year's cycle, as the days begin to get shorter and the nights longer in the northern hemisphere. This has implications for agriculture, as farmers often plan their planting and harvesting schedules around the equinoxes and solstices. Additionally, the equinox has cultural and spiritual significance for many communities, who celebrate the occasion with festivals and rituals.

As we approach the autumn equinox, people can expect to see the effects of the changing seasons in their daily lives. The cooler temperatures and shorter days will bring a welcome relief from the summer heat, but also signal the start of a period of increased rainfall and potentially more severe weather events. Looking ahead, the next major astronomical event is the winter solstice, which will take place on December 21 or 22, marking the shortest day of the year in the northern hemisphere.

Originally reported by bbc.co.uk. MyNews adds analysis for general news readers.