AboutTom Whiting Expertise I can answer most questions involving general science and engineering, except those involving electronics and computers. My strong points are all the Earth Sciences, especially Meteorology and Astronomy, and any related subjects to Astronomy. My weak point is Electronics Technology. No astrology questions please, or questions about alleged UFO identifications.
Experience My hobby has been Astronomy for over 50 years. I currently ownand use a 30 inch portable telescope. I taught at the University Level for 13 years. My personal interest in life, in general, has always been science oriented.
Organizations President - Erie County Mobile Observers Group for over 15 years.Member of allexperts.com astronomy catagory for over 8 years.
Publications Astronomy Technology TodayErie Times Newspaper - I wrote the "Over Erie Skies" columnfor 11 years.
Education/Credentials BS Metallurgical Engineering Grove City College, PAMaster's Degree, Gannon University, Erie, PAAlso retired USAF pilot, 20 years.
Awards and Honors I was the discoverer of the Mini-Coathanger Asterism up in Ursa Minor. I earned 6 Air Medals with USAF and retired after 20 years of service with the rank of Major, with over 2100 hours flying time.I also earned the rank of Eagle Scout in 1956.
Question Given that, at the same time, on one side of the planet in country A it’s Summer and on the opposite side in country B it’s Winter.
Taking into consideration the Earths rotation and axis, is there, has there or will there be a place where Spring falls on the 1st of January, and if so, where?
Answer Hi Duncan,
No. On Jan 1st when it's winter in the United Kingdom (and the Northern Hemisphere) then
it's summertime in South Africa (and the southern hemisphere, by definition.
That takes care of the entire planet. In April, when it's spring in the UK (and the entire Northern Hemisphere) then it's autumn in the entire southern hemisphere, by definition.
That's the way it works.
Of course, there are regions that really have no, or not much seasonal change due to their
location. Most of the equatorial regions stay pretty much a warm summer/warm spring
condition all the time with no cold air or no snow (except the high mountains on the equator).
And since the southern hemisphere is mostly water (a map reveals not much land mass in
the southern hemisphere compared to the northern hemisphere) for the most part South Africa,
South America, and Australia don't go through the severe winters that we in the north can have
at times. The ocean waters tend to moderate their climates.
Clear Skies,
Tom Whiting
Erie, PA USA
