Science explained

Why Earth has seasons

Earth's seasons are caused mainly by the tilt of its rotation axis, not by large changes in distance from the Sun.

EarthAstronomy

Editorial review: August 12, 2026 · Julian E. Marston

Earth is tilted

The axis is inclined relative to the plane of its orbit.

Sun angle changes

A hemisphere tilted toward the Sun receives more direct sunlight.

Day length changes too

Longer daylight adds more solar energy during that hemisphere's summer.

The hemispheres have opposite seasons

When the north is tilted toward the Sun, the south is tilted away.

Source trail: NASA: star basics
This page explains scientific concepts for general learning. It does not replace laboratory safety procedures, professional engineering guidance, or individualized medical advice.